How can I help?
How can I help?

We are very excited to be leading this fantastic new initiative for our region, which aligns directly with our research and knowledge exchange priorities at LBU. This project is all about unlocking the full potential of our region's academic and business communities through inclusive, research-driven innovation.

A shared commitment to innovation and inclusion

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: "Through our £160 million investment zone, we're fast-tracking the development of lifechanging technologies to boost jobs, bolster the NHS, and build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire.

"Cutting complexity and connecting our academic expertise with our innovative businesses, this new programme will simplify and speed up medical breakthroughs, showing how targeted local investment fuels innovation, as part of our work to build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all."

Driving inclusive economic growth

The programme supports the wider regional ambition to make West Yorkshire a thriving hub for health and digital innovation, ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and rooted in local need.

Richard Paxman OBE, Chair of the West Yorkshire Healthtech Cluster and CEO of Paxman, said: "This new programme is a very welcome and exciting boost to our region’s growth and innovation in the healthtech sector. As a business owner, I understand how challenging it can be to navigate the help and support available.

"Opening up access to 'super-connectors' across the four universities in the partnership will create so many opportunities for West Yorkshire businesses to accelerate their ideas and increase the fantastic impact the region is already having in this important sector."

In October, Leeds Beckett University announced plans to open a pioneering Sport Health Tech Incubator, backed by a £1.1 million investment from the West Yorkshire Investment Zone.