Virtual UK MedTech Landing Pad Program

Austrade invites expressions of interest from Australian MedTech companies looking to participate in an online UK MedTech Landing Pad Program from 28 October to 5 December 2024. 

Registrations close Sunday 6 October 2024.

About the Virtual UK MedTech Landing Pad Program
28 October – 5 December 2024

The MedTech Landing Pad Program aims to support Australian MedTech companies in their initial steps toward international market expansion by providing them with the necessary knowledge and resources to enter the UK market.

The program will offer a series of self-paced learning resources, online sessions and follow-up support, covering essential topics such as the UK healthcare landscape, the MedTech ecosystem, regulatory pathways, market entry channels, NHS structure and procurement, business setup and partnerships.

Each session will feature expert insights and practical advice from industry leaders and regulatory officials. The program is designed to help market-ready companies (e.g with a commercially viable product/service and potentially already generating revenues) understand the opportunities and challenges to the working in the UK healthcare market and to scale their operations and impact healthcare in Europe.  In addition, the program will help companies validate whether their offering is a fit for the UK market and help them understand indicative timelines and requirements to achieve commercial success.

Why you should participate

The UK medical market presents a dynamic and promising landscape for Australian MedTech companies, characterised by its robust healthcare infrastructure, cutting-edge research and innovation capabilities, and a strong emphasis on quality and regulatory compliance. Home to the National Health Service (NHS), one of the largest single-payer healthcare systems globally, the UK offers extensive opportunities for MedTech innovation and adoption.

The market is bolstered by a thriving ecosystem of academic institutions, research organizations, and industry clusters, making it a hub for medical advancements.

Additionally, the UK's strategic location and established trade relationships position it as an ideal gateway for expanding into additional European markets, providing a launchpad for companies aiming to scale their operations and reach a diverse patient population across the continent.

With its supportive regulatory environment, access to funding, and a culture of collaboration, the UK stands out as a premier destination for MedTech companies seeking to make a significant impact in healthcare. Adding to this potential, the close relations between Australia and the UK was recently strengthened by a landmark Free Trade Agreement that includes a world-first chapter on innovation. This agreement simplifies market access, reduces barriers, fosters collaboration and provides a conducive environment for bilateral trade and investment.

When you participate, you’ll get:

• an understanding of the UK MedTech market and how to navigate it 
• support to formalise your UK market entry or expansion strategy
• access and opportunity to connect with key leaders and contacts from the NHS, UK MedTech ecosystem and industry
• opportunity to test your products and services with UK partners and get their feedback. 

Who should participate

Austrade is seeking Expressions of Interest from companies that meet the following criteria:

• An Australian registered and operating business with an ABN
• You are working in the MedTech sector with a viable offering, existing customers and revenue generation, or have existing funding to support market expansion.
• You are market-ready with a commercially viable product/service
• You have identified the UK as a priority expansion market for 2024/25
• You are able to commit time to work with Austrade and participate in all agreed aspects of the program  
• You are able to dedicate sufficient resource to the market. This means enough ‘runway’ to give the strategy time to be effective and to analyse diverse opportunities. 

Space is limited and applicants will be selected based on the above criteria and an assessment of their market readiness following receipt of a completed online application. All Applicants must meet Austrade’s eligibility check.

Cost

Austrade will cover the costs of UK Virtual MedTech Landing Pad Program.

How you’ll be supported 

Market Entry Guidance: Get firsthand support to understand and navigate the UK MedTech market, including strategic insights and practical advice for formalizing your market entry or expansion strategy.

Networking and Connections: Access valuable opportunities to connect with key decision makers and stakeholders from the NHS, MedTech ecosystem, and industry, enabling direct engagement with potential partners and NHS professionals.

Gain valuable feedback and boost visibility: Showcase your medical technology solutions to a target audience of UK and international partners and receive firsthand feedback to refine your offering. Enhance your visibility and foster meaningful business collaboration with key stakeholders in the market.

Registrations close Sunday 6 October 2024.

Key Contacts