ABS launches inaugural Surgical MedTech Innovation Challenge with NIHR Surgical MIC
The ABS/NIHR Surgical MedTech Innovation Challenge will deliver smart surgery for tomorrow’s NHS.
London, UK – Awa Business School (ABS) and the NIHR Surgical MedTech Co-operative (Surgical MIC) today announced the inaugural Surgical MedTech Innovation Challenge at the 2018 NIHR National Meeting in Leeds, United Kingdom.
The Challenge seeks inspiring and cutting-edge surgical technology solutions that will benefit patients undergoing surgery. This can include technology for the early detection, prevention, and management of post-operative complications, colorectal/liver/pancreatic cancers, bowel disease, and vascular conditions.
Researchers, entrepreneurs, and innovators are invited to apply for seed funding to support research and technology development. The winning candidate will receive £5,000 to translate their idea into reality, in collaboration with the NIHR Surgical MedTech Co-operative and its network to successfully prototype and demonstrate proof-of-concept.
ABS and the Surgical MIC are joining forces to support unique ideas that will transform the healthcare industry and deliver smart surgery for tomorrow’s NHS. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to pitch their ideas at the Surgical MedTech Innovation Awards taking place in London, in February 2019.
Speaking of the collaboration, Dr Dayo Abinusawa, Managing Director at Awa Business School, said: “It’s an exciting time to be innovating in the medical and surgical technology space. Awa Business School is delighted to partner with a leading institution to help build the NHS of our future. We look forward to a successful challenge that will combine our commercialisation experience with the Surgical MIC’s clinical and technological expertise.”
Vee Mapunde, Programme Manager for NIHR Healthcare Technologies Cooperative (HTC), added: “The number of surgical procedures performed each year has risen by 27% over the past decade, and this trend is set to continue as the population ages. With safer surgery being a priority area of global importance, there is a real need to improve outcomes for the most vulnerable patients undergoing surgery. The Surgical MIC supports the development of medical technologies to improve the quality of life for patients."
The application period runs from 7 November 2018 to 4 January 2019. There will be two innovation awards, and an additional applicant will receive recognition and support for being the People’s Choice.