Applications open on 19th October 2026 for three programmes designed to support people with ideas that can improve health and care.
Whether you’re an NHS staff member with a new way of solving a challenge, a patient whose lived experience has inspired innovation, or someone working to improve dementia care, these programmes can help you develop your ideas and make a greater impact.
This year’s programmes include:
- Clinical Entrepreneur Programme – open to all NHS staff across the UK.
- Patient Entrepreneur Programme – open to patients and carers in England developing innovations informed by lived experience.
- Dementia Innovators Programme – open to health and social care professionals working on solutions to improve the lives of people affected by dementia.
A participant at Newcastle Hospitals said being part of the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme was an amazing opportunity.
At my first pit stop I was sure there had been a mistake and that I did not belong in the room. I still have moments of doubt, but I keep showing up and growing.
The personal development support on the programme and the chance to hear from other entrepreneurs, industry partners and policy makers are invaluable.
Being accepted feels like recognition of my drive to make a positive difference for patients and staff. I have found my people: a supportive, inclusive community of NHS colleagues who are all striving to make the NHS better.
She added:
The innovation team gave me that same belief at the earliest ideation stage and have championed me ever since. I am proud to work at Newcastle Hospitals with such an exceptional innovation team.”
Participants receive access to CPD-accredited learning, expert mentoring, networking opportunities and a supportive community of like-minded innovators. The programmes are free to join and designed to fit alongside existing work and personal commitments.
- Applications open: 19th October 2026 at 8am
- Applications close: 20th November 2026 at 4pm
- Programme starts: March 2027
For further information and to apply, visit www.nhscep.com.