Leeds Beckett University leads research-powered partnership to boost health innovation across West Yorkshire
Leeds Beckett University is spearheading a major new collaboration with universities across West Yorkshire to fast-track innovation in health technologies – supporting businesses to bring new ideas to market and improving health outcomes in the region.
The Innovation Pathways (In-Path) programme – led by Leeds Beckett in partnership with the Universities of Huddersfield, Leeds and Bradford – is backed by £1.7m in funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) through the West Yorkshire Investment Zone.
At the heart of the programme are four new Relationship Managers, one based at each university, who will act as expert ‘connectors’ – helping businesses access the right research expertise, innovation programmes and funding opportunities to accelerate growth and impact.
Bridging the gap between research and real-world health innovation
The In-Path programme is designed to strength the link between cutting-edge university research and the needs of health and digital technology businesses working on the frontlines of innovation.
Natalie Allen, Head of Business Partnerships at Leeds Beckett University, said: “There is a plethora of support out there for businesses, but it can be very complex to navigate. Our Relationship Managers will really drill down with the businesses, getting a thorough understanding of exactly what they need for their innovation and growth journey. They will matchmake them to the most appropriate programmes available across the region, acting as ‘super-connectors’”
A shared commitment to innovation and inclusion
Professor Silke Machold, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Leeds Beckett, added: “We are very excited to be leading this fantastic new initiative for our region, which aligns directly with our research and knowledge exchange priorities at LBU. This project is all about unlocking the full potential of our region’s academic and business communities through inclusive, research-driven innovation.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Through our £160 million investment zone, we’re fast-tracking the development of lifechanging technologies to boost jobs, bolster the NHS, and build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire.
“Cutting complexity and connecting our academic expertise with our innovative businesses, this new programme will simplify and speed up medical breakthroughs, showing how targeted local investment fuels innovation, as part of our work to build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.”
Driving inclusive economic growth
The programme supports the wider regional ambition to make West Yorkshire a thriving hub for health and digital innovation, ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and rooted in local need.
Richard Paxman OBE, Chair of the West Yorkshire Healthtech Cluster and CEO of Paxman, said: “This new programme is a very welcome and exciting boost to our region’s growth and innovation in the healthtech sector. As a business owner, I understand how challenging it can be to navigate the help and support available.
“Opening up access to ‘super-connectors’ across the four universities in the partnership will create so many opportunities for West Yorkshire businesses to accelerate their ideas and increase the fantastic impact the region is already having in this important sector.”
In October, Leeds Beckett University announced plans to open a pioneering Sport Health Tech Incubator, backed by a £1.1 million investment from the West Yorkshire Investment Zone.