Dementia Innovators Programme
A new programme from NHS CEP and Alzheimer’s Society aimed at dementia innovations.
About us
What is the Dementia Innovators Programme?
The Dementia Innovators Programme is a collaboration between the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme and Alzheimer’s Society.
Designed for professionals both within and outside the NHS, the programme supports individuals with innovative ideas, products or services that could improve the lives of people affected by dementia.
The programme equips participants with the skills, knowledge and networks needed to develop, test and scale their innovations. Participants gain access to experienced mentors, healthcare professionals, industry experts and a community of like-minded innovators.
Alzheimer’s Society plays a leading role in supporting the development, adoption and scaling of innovations that help people affected by dementia live well for longer. Through its innovation programmes, the charity has supported more than 80 innovations, helping products and services reach over 1.5 million people.
Delivered through the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme, this programme enables participants to join an established and respected innovation learning and development programme, while benefiting from additional wraparound support, dementia-specific expertise and bespoke opportunities provided by Alzheimer’s Society. Together, the partnership aims to accelerate the development of impactful solutions that improve outcomes for people living with dementia and those who care for them.
Dementia Innovators Programme Cohort 3.
“This collaboration is a commitment to supporting innovative treatments and support to those living with dementia. We are not only addressing the immediate challenges but also contributing to a future where every individual with dementia can live with dignity and receive the support they deserve.”
Professor Tony Young, Clinical Lead for the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme and National Clinical Lead for Innovation at NHS England.
Who can apply for the Dementia Innovators Programme?
The NHS CEP will accept applications to the Dementia Innovators Programme from health and social care staff both in and out of the NHS including frontline health care professionals. This includes allied health professionals, social care professionals, admiral nurses, care home staff, hospice staff, dieticians, opticians, podiatrists, etc.
Applicants need to be based in the UK and be 18 years and over. To see the full list of those who would be eligible please visit our FAQ’s page.
What is the offer?
The programme is free and it can fit around your work. Individuals can apply to the programme from the 19th October 2026.
The programme will start in spring 2027, and those who receive a place will have full access to the Clinical Entrepreneur Programme which includes:
Learning
- CPD Accredited Pit Stops – 2-day events delivering educational content – blended delivery both online and in person.
- Workshops and webinars – blended delivery where possible
Mentoring
- Mentoring – online and in person
- 1-2-1 clinics with experts –online and in person.
- Business planning – online and in person
Opportunities
- International opportunities and trips.
- Company days and pitching opportunities with industry partners.
- Networking
Community
- Supportive and inclusive community
- Access to online community hub.
- Support from the dedicated CEP team
Additional Support
Regular check in
Alzheimer’s Society will provide regular check-ins with Senior Innovators at Alzheimer’s Society.
Webinars and workshops
A range of workshops and webinars that are specific to dementia innovations and complement the content on the CEP
Places at relevant events and conferences as space allows
Innovation Support from the Alzheimer’s Society
Connection in to further patient networks and communities
Access to the Innovation Collective, a group of experts in dementia and product development
The Commitment
We understand that everyone’s time is precious so we ensure that our events are available to attend online. The commitment to the programme is:
To attend at least 50% of the CPD Accredited pit stops (there are 8 per year), this can either be in person or virtual via Zoom.
If matched with a mentor, they need to have at least four 1-hour sessions over the course of the year.
Provide entrepreneur profiles to the programme team.
Participation in yearly survey and impact reports.
Further information
Key Dates
Applications for the Dementia Innovators Programme Cohort 3 will open on the 19th October through to the 20th November 2026.
Applications
Open to all health and social care staff both within and outside of the NHS including frontline health care professionals.
Work of Alzheimer’s Society
Explore the work of Alzheimer’s Society and discover their other innovation programmes.