Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have a critical role to play in driving advancements in health and wellbeing. However, navigating the world of health innovation can feel like a daunting task for smaller organisations, especially when it comes to accessing resources and building networks.
So, how do you bridge the gap between SMEs and health innovation?
We’ve put together some practical tips for SMEs, from engaging with health innovation projects, collaborating with experts to leveraging resources like maker spaces.
- Identify the right partners
SMEs can benefit greatly by partnering with universities, research institutions or innovation centres that specialise in health and wellbeing. These organisations often have the expertise, facilities and networks to help SMEs bring their ideas to life.
Start by identifying local or regional hubs, such as the 3M Buckley Innovation Centre (3M BIC) and the University of Huddersfield’s Business Partnerships team, which offer tailored support for SMEs. Look for initiatives that align with your business goals and have a track record of successful partnerships.
- Make use of maker spaces
Maker spaces are invaluable for SMEs looking to develop prototypes, test concepts and refine products. These facilities provide access to state-of-the-art equipment like 3D printers and CNC machines and x-ray technology, which might otherwise be out of reach for smaller businesses.
Spaces like the 3M BIC and the new health and wellbeing innovation centre set to open on the University of Huddersfield’s National Health Innovation Campus early 2026, SMEs can work alongside technical experts to turn ideas into tangible solutions. These environments also foster collaboration, offering opportunities to connect with other innovators and share insights.
- Understand the needs of the healthcare market
One of the biggest challenges for SMEs entering the health sector is understanding the complex needs of patients, healthcare providers and regulators. Engaging with end-users early in the development process can provide valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t.
Consider conducting focus groups or working with patient advocacy groups to ensure your product or service meets real-world needs. Additionally, staying informed about regulatory requirements and industry standards is essential to ensure your solution is compliant and market ready.
- Leverage funding and support schemes
Financial constraints are often a barrier for SMEs pursuing innovation. However, there are numerous grants, funding opportunities, and support schemes available for businesses in the health and wellbeing sector. Organisations like Innovate UK, local enterprise partnerships (LEPs), and university-led initiatives can provide the financial boost needed to take your idea forward.
Some innovation centres also offer soft landing packages, which provide resources and support to businesses looking to establish a foothold in new regions. For example, the 3M BIC offers tailored packages to health and wellbeing organisations outside West Yorkshire, helping them access facilities and networks and break into new markets.
- Embrace a multidisciplinary approach
Health innovation often requires expertise from diverse fields, such as engineering, design and data science. SMEs can benefit from adopting a multidisciplinary approach, either by building an in-house team with varied skills or by collaborating with external experts.
Maker spaces and innovation hubs are ideal environments for fostering such collaboration, as they bring together professionals from different disciplines to solve complex problems.
- Build a network within the health innovation ecosystem
Networking is essential for SMEs to establish themselves in the health innovation space. Attend industry events, join online forums and participate in workshops to connect with like-minded professionals and potential collaborators.
Events provide an excellent platform for SMEs to showcase their capabilities, learn from industry leaders and form strategic partnerships.
- Stay informed and adaptable
The health innovation landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations and market demands emerging regularly. SMEs that stay informed and remain adaptable are better positioned to seize opportunities and overcome challenges.
Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow thought leaders and engage with local innovation hubs to stay up to date on trends and developments.
The gap between SMEs and health innovation can be bridged with the right approach, resources and partnerships. By making use of facilities like innovation hubs, maker spaces, university support, collaborating with experts and staying informed about industry needs, SMEs can position themselves as key players in the future of healthcare.
