Case study: Partnering with London Business School’s HealthTech Challenge

Partners: London Business School Healthcare Club, NW London ICB 

The London HealthTech Challenge (HTC) is an annual competition hosted by the London Business School Healthcare Club aiming to foster entrepreneurship and stimulate the development of innovative healthcare product ideas. Winning teams receive funding, mentorship, training and networking opportunities. ICHP partnered with HTC in 2024 to launch a £10,000 NHS Prize for ideas meeting one of the NW London Missions. This collaboration supported:  

• OLS commission to encourage and foster networked innovation 
• Demand-signalling NW London needs to innovators and entrepreneurs 
• Horizon-scanning innovations aligned with Missions 
• Strengthening links to academia and industry  
• Provision of expertise and guidance to innovators to refine their products and solutions  

The 2024 HTC received 85 applicants, with 61 for the NHS Prize – both demonstrating high-level interest and volume of existing and developing solutions with the potential to support Missions.  

ICHP provided 1:1 Innovation Surgeries to the 11 applicants shortlisted for the second round and advised on the judging process to ensure alignment with Missions. Enhanced Innovation Surgeries were also provided to the final five finalists. ICHP’s funding for the NHS Prize winner will contribute to further product development, for example, developing proof-of-concept, market research, etc.  

“The addition of the NHS Prize to the HealthTech Challenge was invaluable and elevated the challenge to new levels. I’m personally thrilled we have a deeper connection to the NHS through it as well.” President, London Business School Healthcare Club