UK-Based Company Launches Program To Drive Inclusivity In Digital Health For Underrepresented Founders
DigitalHealth.London has launched their Leap program dedicated to championing inclusivity and supporting founders from diverse backgrounds in digital health.
Digital Health uses information and communications technologies in medicine and other health progressions to manage illnesses and health risks.
According to a report from The Treasury Committee in 2021, less than 2% of all venture capital funding went to Black and ethnic minority-led businesses.
The DigitalHealth.London aims to sustain and expand an active digital health market in London by helping to overcome challenges that hold innovators back.
Therefore, the program is open to founders from diverse backgrounds, including individuals who identify as being from Black, Asian, or minority ethnic communities.
What Does The Leap Program Include?
Successful applicants will have access to a comprehensive development curriculum incorporating coaching, peer support, mentoring, learning opportunities, networking, and potential investment and funding support.
Mentoring opportunities came from a dedicated and diverse program advisory panel of subject matter experts.
In addition, round table events and action learning sets are offered to help foster a collaborative environment for peer-to-peer support and knowledge exchange.
Regular drop-in sessions with a dedicated digital health navigator for personalized support and advice from key founding and strategic partners, providing their expertise, are also included.
The UK Government funds the Leap program via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
It is delivered by the Health Innovation Network (HIN) South London in partnership with the Office of Life Sciences, CW+, Medicity, NHS England, the Mayor of London, and the Levelling Up Fund.
How Do Candidates Apply?
Founders are invited to apply for the program through a short application form.
The applications will be reviewed by the team and advisory panel, who will score them based on their suitability for participation in the program.
The areas include the potential to benefit from the program, barriers the founder and business credibility identified, and NHS and social care needs.
The next cohort begins in March 2024.
