Why we're excited about Accelerator cohort two
Summary
James Somauroo, Accelerator Programme Director explains why he is proud of so many of its achievements in cohort one, and why he is excited to be taking the learning forward into the next year.In 12 months, and with our first cohort of 31 small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), we have driven some of the best digital innovations in healthcare, into the NHS, benefitting patients, staff, and the wider NHS system. We couldnt have done this without our core team, our NHS navigators and our partners: HIN, UCLPartners, ICHP, Medcity, CW+, and the EU through an ERDF grant.On 7 September, we said farewell to cohort one and welcomed cohort two in a celebration and launch event at the Kia Oval. DigitalHealth.London will be looking after cohort one by providing a bespoke alumni programme to look after them as part of a wider ecosystem, including through a series of specialised events, masterclasses, and consultancy.We then announced our 30 cohort two companies. The culmination of over 125 applications, 64 interviews and many hours of discussion around their business credibility, the NHS need, and their potential benefit from the accelerator.Anybody who saw the 60 second pitches will understand why were very proud of a hugely diverse and high-quality cohort. Were genuinely excited about their potential, as, after a having several kick-off meetings already, we can tell that we have an engaged, energetic and talented collection of SMEs who all have ambitious, yet realistic goals to change the NHS and patient experience for the better.Over the next year, we see the Accelerator at the forefront of innovation within the NHS.