The prestigious Imperial-led MedTech SuperConnector recently celebrated its latest group of innovators at a sold-out Showcase which took place at Scale Space White City.
A diverse audience made up of researchers, academics, investors, and industry-experts filled The Stadium on Tuesday 14 March to learn about emerging innovations that address global healthcare challenges.
MedTech SuperConnector is a highly respected programme that drives advances in healthcare technology by powering the first stage of the innovation journey through a proven blend of funding, training, mentoring and networking opportunities.
Since 2018, the programme has generated over 14 spin outs, 17 patents, 8 clinical trials and attracted £18 million in follow-on startup investment. Its mission is to provide early career researchers (ECRs) with a foundational understanding of commercialising their product and translating their ground-breaking research into medtech realities. Armed with this knowledge, ECRs can better navigate the partnership landscape and gain traction on their early-stage innovations, a benefit which participant Hana Fox reflects on:
Hana Fox pitching her project ConformiTi
“The MTSC has been invaluable in moving our venture forward. It has empowered us to strengthen our business strategy and more effectively connect with both customers and industry.”
The programme’s sixth talented cohort delivered 12 dynamic pitches on innovations which ranged from molecular diagnostics to determine a patient’s optimum cancer treatment pathway, to a bioengineering printer which can create and monitor complex organs, and titanium-based conforming spinal implants – to mention just a few.
The event’s keynote speaker, Dr Vreni Schoenenberger, Global Franchise Head, External Affairs/Partnerships for Novartis, provided her industry insight on the importance of fostering relationships and collaboration between industry and early-stage ventures.
Dr Vreni Schoenenberger delivering her engaging keynote on the importance of industry support for early-stage innovations
Dr Sudeep Joshi pitching his technology, Imaging Driven Multifunctional Bioplotter
Participant Sudeep Joshi commented: “MTSC was an intense skill-enhancing experience to start my entrepreneurial journey. The mentorship and guidance I received throughout the programme have enabled me to understand the pathway from my research bench to commercial market. The showcase event was instrumental in raising my profile with potential investors and strategic partners. Many thanks to the MTSC team for providing such a unique tailored business programme”.
Hiten Thakrar, Programme Head added: “The MTSC Showcase is a prime occasion for MedTech entrepreneurs, businesses, and investors to come together and discover the potential of new technologies that will drive the future of healthcare. This year’s sell-out event demonstrates the buoyancy of this sector and the MTSC’s role as a key player in the innovation ecosystem.”
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