MTIF Involved in World-Class Impact Accelerator
Accelerating Innovation: EMERGE Project to Drive Development of Ground-breaking Rehabilitation Technologies
MTIF is proud to be at the heart of a transformative new initiative, the East Midlands Emerging RehabTech Growth Enterprise (EMERGE) project, which will fast-track the development of pioneering rehabilitation technologies.
Led by Nottingham Trent University and supported by the UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council‘s £2.5 million investment, EMERGE will position the East Midlands as the UK’s ‘RehabTech Valley’, a hub for excellence in rehabilitation innovation.
This world-class accelerator will connect hundreds of MedTech SMEs across the East Midlands with health and care professionals, academics, and the public. The aim is to address the increasing demand for innovative solutions that help individuals recover and regain independence following injury or illness.
A Collaborative Effort to Transform Healthcare
The EMERGE project is a collaborative venture co-led by the University of Nottingham, Loughborough University, and the University of Derby, supported by a consortium of over 30 partners, including MTIF. Together, we aim to tackle the region’s health challenges and stimulate economic growth by unlocking the potential of emerging RehabTech innovations.
By addressing barriers such as access to skills, clinical partnerships, and private investment, the project will accelerate innovation in areas including:
- Smart medical wearables
- Bioengineering and robotics
- Artificial intelligence
- Sensors, imaging, and medical device materials
MTIF will play a key role, providing access to cutting-edge facilities and expertise in wearable and smart medical technologies to help bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world application.
Driving Economic and Social Impact
As the East Midlands faces widening health inequalities, particularly in deprived communities, EMERGE is committed to embedding public and patient involvement in its activities. This ensures the development of solutions that address barriers to access and help reduce health disparities.
With the region already recognised as a leader in rehabilitation technologies—bolstered by the Government’s £105M investment in the National Rehabilitation Centre—the EMERGE project is poised to deliver significant benefits:
- Improved access to rehabilitation services
- Accelerated patient recovery and return to work
- Boosted regional growth and productivity
What They Say
Professor Richard Emes, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and International at Nottingham Trent University, noted:
“This award further supports our ambitions in the theme of Health Innovation, where NTU researchers are dedicated to transforming patient and community care outcomes. The impact acceleration account will speed the translation of applied research between academic partners and healthcare providers in the region to achieve real-world change for the benefit of patients.”
UK Science Minister Lord Vallance said:
“This investment will allow innovators up and down the country to continue or expand their pioneering work to improve lives and kickstart growth in our economy with new opportunities.”
EPSRC Executive Chair, Professor Charlotte Deane, added:
“The seven projects announced today will harness regional research and innovation strengths to unleash the potential of emerging and existing innovation clusters across the UK. Our investment will strengthen partnerships between UK universities, civic bodies, and local businesses to create new jobs, improve skills, and boost regional economic growth that will benefit places and communities directly.”
Giving thanks and recognition
Everyone at MTIF would like to thank our esteemed colleague, Academic and Research Lead Prof. John Hunt for his hard work and dedication on this funding bid. Throughout the lengthy process John has shown unwavering commitment and determination to supporting the wider MedTech community and improving healthcare for the public.
Further information
For more information about the EMERGE project and MTIF’s role, please contact us or explore our facilities through our virtual tour.