Quick Summary
The Innovate UK Women in Innovation Awards have recognized several innovative health tech solutions, including a tampon designed to prevent bacterial infections, an AI-driven audio device for the visually impaired, and an app focused on gynaecological conditions. A total of £3.75 million in government funding was awarded to 50 women entrepreneurs addressing various societal challenges.
Key Highlights
- The competition, launched in May 2024, received 1,452 applications, marking a 52% increase from the previous year.
- Dr. Stella Peace, interim executive chair of Innovate UK, emphasized the program’s role in fostering an inclusive innovation ecosystem.
- Feryal Clark, minister for AI, praised the winners for their impactful projects, ranging from cancer treatments to AI applications in law enforcement.
Controversy and Resolution
- In September 2024, Innovate UK initially announced a reduction in the number of grants from 50 to 25, each worth £75,000.
- This decision was reversed following a social media campaign led by female founders advocating for the original funding plan.
Notable Winners in Health Tech
- Emma Yates, Proteotype Diagnostics: Developed the Enlighten test for early-stage cancer detection using the patient’s immune response.
- Divya Varma, BirthGlide: Created medical devices aimed at improving childbirth safety, addressing the 30% of new mothers in the UK who require assisted vaginal births.
- Daniela Mercado Beivide, Holly Health: Launched a mindfulness platform that supports over 30,000 users in adopting healthier eating habits.
- Binhui Shao, Easy Digital: Introduced an AI-powered audio device that provides internet access for visually impaired users.
- Georgia Fleet, Zonova: Tackled antimicrobial resistance by enhancing medical devices with antimicrobial properties.
- Dupe Burgess, Bloomful: Developed an app offering personalized support for gynaecological conditions, currently in trials across UK GP surgeries.
Future Prospects
The Women in Innovation Awards continue to highlight the contributions of women in health tech, encouraging future innovations that address pressing health challenges. The full list of winners can be found on the Innovate UK website.