Manipal, July 30, 2026 — Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, hosted the three-day 4th Edition of the UK-India HealthTech Accelerator Programme (2026–2028) at its Manipal campus from July 22 to 24.
Organized in partnership with the UK Government and supported by the Bhubaneswar City Knowledge Innovation Cluster Foundation (BCKIC) as Knowledge Partner, the event convened 25 promising Indian HealthTech startups alongside policymakers, healthcare specialists, investors, researchers, and industry leaders from both nations.
Bridging Indian Innovation with Global Healthcare
The accelerator aims to catalyze cross-border partnerships and empower Indian startups to address critical challenges within the global health ecosystem and the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Following the three-day event, six selected startups will receive a fully funded immersion visit to the United Kingdom, offering direct exposure to NHS stakeholders, international investors, and the broader UK healthcare market.
The inauguration ceremony featured key leaders, including:
- Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE
- Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE
- Mr. Chandru Iyer, British Deputy High Commissioner to Karnataka and Deputy Trade Commissioner for Investment (South Asia)
- Dr. Mrutyunjay Suar, Chairman, BCKIC
Strategic Ties and Multi-Million Pound Impact
Reflecting on the initiative, Mr. Chandru Iyer highlighted the role of recent economic frameworks:
“The MAHE accelerator has been three days of innovation in action, connecting Indian innovators with the UK’s healthcare, research, investment, and innovation ecosystem… With the recently implemented UK-India Free Trade Agreement and Double Contribution Convention creating new opportunities for innovation-led enterprises, this programme reflects the growing momentum in UK-India economic and innovation partnerships.”
Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, added:
“Over the past three days, we have witnessed outstanding innovation, meaningful collaborations, and valuable knowledge exchange that will help Indian startups develop globally relevant healthcare solutions. We are proud to partner with the British High Commission and BCKIC in advancing healthcare innovation for global impact.”
A Proven Track Record
Since its inception, the UK-India HealthTech Accelerator Programme has become a vital springboard for bilateral healthcare innovation. Across its four editions, the initiative has:
- Attracted nearly 1,000 applications and supported 75+ HealthTech companies.
- Facilitated tailored UK market immersion for 23 enterprises.
- Enabled 7 startups to establish official operations in the UK.
- Generated approximately £32 million in investment activity, creating jobs and fostering long-term international scientific collaboration.
As host for the 2026–2028 cycle, MAHE reaffirms its role as a leading academic hub for translational research, entrepreneurship, and global health technology integration.
