Business Growth Hub and TRUSTECH to help SMEs access NHS contracts

Business Growth Hub is hoping to help Greater Manchester SMEs access work with the NHS and the wider healthcare sector after striking a new partnership with healthcare innovation firm TRUSTECH.

TRUSTECH, which works to connect the NHS with industry, will now work alongside Business Growth Hub as part of its new life sciences offer, supporting SMEs as they develop new life science products or services and increase their footprint in healthcare markets.

As part of the agreement, Hub advisors Lindsay Hallworth and Colin Callow will provide support such as guidance on maximising investment leverage through a strong business plan to interpreting NHS guidance on clinical requirements and supply chains.

Lindsay Hallworth, a healthcare business advisor with Business Growth Hub, said: “Not only are we looking to work with businesses that are already established in the healthcare sector, but we want to work with those that are looking to diversify into this exciting market.

“We will work with a range of SMEs to identify opportunities in this area – from medical developments to digital healthcare apps – while also providing the tools to overcome any barriers to growth.”

Hub director Richard Jeffery commented: “The healthcare market is firmly placed at the heart of the Greater Manchester agenda as the region seeks to secure its position as a world leader in life science innovation.”

The partnership has come as devolution grants Greater Manchester control of spending its £6bn health and social care budget.

Richard continued: “With devolution taking effect, the opportunity for Greater Manchester businesses in this growing industry is greater than ever before.

“We will work in collaboration to give SMEs the vital support they need to access established and developing health markets, helping them grow, generate new jobs and attract new investment.”