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Funding opportunities to accelerate healthcare innovations

Securing funding is often crucial in transforming innovative healthcare ideas into real-world solutions. Whether you’re developing medical devices, diagnostics, digital health technologies or novel therapeutics, the right funding can help you advance your project—from proof-of-concept and preclinical testing to real-world validation and market adoption.

 “Securing funding for health tech innovators, startups, and SMEs is one of our key focus areas. With expert guidance, we help navigate the landscape, and our success in grants and partnerships speaks for itself—partners trust us and return for support.”James Rose, Director of Strategic and Industry Partnerships.

Explore the latest funding opportunities below and discover how we can support your application. 

AI for Healthcare Challenge

Oxford Science Enterprises has launched the AI for Healthcare Challenge, offering funding and expert support to drive AI-based innovations in healthcare. If you’re developing AI-driven solutions with high patient impact and commercial potential, this funding could help accelerate your journey. 

  • Who can apply: Researchers, academics, entrepreneurs, and students from: University of Oxford, Oxford University Hospitals, Harwell and Culham Science Parks and the wider Oxford innovation ecosytem 
  • Funding available: Support varies based on project needs and can include: 
    • funding for technical feasibility studies, market gap analysis, IP strategy, and regulatory pathways 
    • a pathway to pre-seed or seed investment into a newly formed entity 
  • Scope: AI-powered innovations that can transform diagnostics, personalised medicine and operational efficiency in healthcare 
  • Deadline: 3 March 2025 

Why apply? If your innovation leverages AI to solve critical healthcare challenges, this programme provides both funding and strategic support to help you scale and commercialise your technology.

Find out more about the AI for Healthcare Challenge.

NIHR i4i Connect Call 9

Designed for SMEs developing medical devices, in vitro diagnostics or digital health technologies, this funding supports early-stage projects on their way to market. It’s an excellent opportunity for companies looking to bridge the gap between initial development and securing follow-on investment. 

  • Funding available: £50,000–£150,000 
  • Project duration: 6–12 months 
  • Who can apply: UK-based SMEs with innovative healthcare technologies 
  • Deadline: 18 March 2025 

Why Apply? This funding helps you refine your innovation, generate early evidence, and position yourself for larger funding rounds or commercialisation. 

Find out more about i4i Connect Call 9.

Medical Research Council

The Medical Research Council (MRC) is offering funding for projects at any stage of the development pathway—from early discovery and pre-clinical refinement to early-phase clinical trials (up to Phase 2a). If you’re developing a new therapeutic, medical device, or diagnostic, this funding could be a game-changer. 

  • Funding available: No maximum (MRC typically funds up to 80% of total project cost) 
  • Who can apply: Researchers at MRC-eligible organisations 
  • Scope: Supports projects from early development through to clinical trials 
  • Deadline: 19 March 2025 

Why apply? MRC funding provides critical support to help turn cutting-edge research into clinical applications, bridging the gap between innovation and real-world impact. 

Find out more about Medical Research Council funding.

NIHR i4i Product Development Awards (PDA) Call 30

The i4i PDA programme is designed to de-risk and accelerate healthcare innovations, making them more attractive for follow-on investment and NHS adoption. It funds projects from proof-of-concept through to real-world validation, ensuring a smooth pathway toward commercialisation. 

  • Who can apply: Collaborative research teams developing medical devices, in vitro diagnostics or digital health solutions 
  • Entry point: Experimental proof-of-concept or laboratory-validated technology 
  • Exit point: Validated technology or performance in real-world settings 
  • Funding available: No maximum—projects should be ambitious and high-impact 
  • Project duration: Up to 36 months 
  • Deadline: 28 May 2025 

Why apply? This funding stream covers projects from preclinical development to real-world evaluation, providing the support needed to bring cutting-edge technologies into the NHS and social care systems. 

Find out more about i4i Product Development Awards Call 30.

How we can support your funding application

Applying for funding can be complex and competitive, but we’re here to help. Our team of experts provides tailored advice and practical support to strengthen your application, including: 

  • Strategic guidance – Ensuring your project aligns with funding priorities and clearly demonstrates impact. 
  • Health economic analysis – Showcasing the clinical and financial value of your innovation. 
  • Stakeholder engagement – Connecting you with key partners and running workshops to refine your approach. 
  •  Data analysis – Strengthening your case with robust evidence. 
  • Feasibility studies – Assessing your project’s viability and market potential. 

Need help preparing your application? Complete our enquiry form and let’s work together to secure the funding you need to bring your innovation to life. 

Get in touch today

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