6 | Foreword As I prepare to step down from my role as National Medical Director, it is with immense pride and gratitude that I welcome you to this year’s NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme Big Pitch event. This afternoon marks more than a celebration; it’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we place innovation at the heart of healthcare. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the extraordinary impact of this programme from its inception to now supporting over 1,500 entrepreneurs across clinical and non-clinical roles. What has inspired me most is the spirit of co-production and collaboration: the way staff, clinicians, patients, and carers come together to develop solutions rooted in lived experience and practical insight. The energy, creativity, and unwavering dedication of this community give me deep hope for the future. To the 223 new entrepreneurs joining us — welcome. You are the future of a more innovative and compassionate NHS. Thank you to all who have made this programme such a success. It has been an honour to support this journey. Professor Sir Stephen Powis National Medical Director, NHS England Innovation must be at the heart of the NHS - it’s how we keep the NHS moving forward. If we want to meet the changing needs of our patients and keep delivering world-class care, we need fresh ideas, bold thinking, and the courage to do things differently. That’s why we’re so excited to launch the latest cohort of the Clinical Entrepreneur Programme. This isn’t just about projects — it’s about people. People like you, who see challenges and think, ‘there has to be a better way.’ From tackling workforce pressures to reducing health inequalities, innovation is how we solve the big problems — and the everyday ones too. And the best ideas often come from those who live and breathe the NHS every day. We’ve always been a health service that leads the way. Now it’s time to build on that legacy with even more ambition. By backing clinicians and staff to lead change from within, we make sure innovation is practical, powerful, and rooted in real-world care. This programme is about turning ambition into action. You’re not just imagining a better future — you’re building it. And we’re proud to be with you every step of the way. Sir James Mackey Chief Executive Officer, NHS England
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