The NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme (CEP), delivered by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), had the pleasure of attending the 2026 HSJ Partnership Awards last week, where we were shortlisted for ‘Best Educational Programme for the NHS’. Being recognised in this category is a proud moment for our team and reflects the programme’s ongoing impact in supporting NHS staff to develop innovative ideas that improve patient care.

The HSJ Partnership Awards recognise the partnerships and programmes delivering impactful change across the health and care landscape. This year’s awards attracted an exceptional range of entries, with 160 shortlisted projects across 24 categories. The calibre and diversity of submissions reflect the impressive levels of innovation, collaboration, and commitment being delivered throughout the NHS.

Being shortlisted for Best Educational Programme for the NHS, an award the CEP proudly won in 2024, reflects the programme’s ongoing expansion, impact and the strength of the community behind it.

Over the past decade, the programme has:
✨Supported over 1,500 innovators
✨Built a diverse and inclusive community of clinical entrepreneurs
✨Partnered with over 40 industry-leading organisations
✨Benefited from the expertise of 300 dedicated mentors

This thriving ecosystem continues to empower healthcare professionals to turn ideas into impactful solutions for patients, services, and systems.

Although the programme did not take home the award this year, being recognised as a finalist is a significant achievement. It reflects the dedication of the entrepreneurs, mentors, partners, and ARU team who contribute to the programme’s success. The ceremony provided an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding work taking place across the NHS and to acknowledge the organisations driving meaningful change.

To explore the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme and discover how it supports innovation across the NHS, visit: www.nhscep.com