Apply
We welcome applications each year from individuals interested in joining the programme. Learn more about the application process and key dates below.
Applications for the 2027 intake will open on 17 August 2026.
The application
Meet the NIA – virtual webinars
Sign up here
You can register to attend one of the following online Meet the NIA sessions:
- Thursday, 25 June 2026: 12:00 – 13:00
- Monday, 27 July 2026: 12:00 – 13:00
- Tuesday, 18 August 2026: 13:00 – 14:00
- Thursday 10 September 2026: 12:00 – 13:00
- Monday, 21 September 2026: 13:00 – 14:00
Applications open
Applications for the NIA Fellowship Programme open 17 August and close at 23:59 on 27 September 2026. This is your time to submit your innovation and make your case for joining the Fellowship.
Applications screened, scored & filtered
Once applications are received, they are carefully screened, scored, and filtered. This ensures that only the most impactful and promising innovations progress to the next stage of the selection process.
Interview
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview on 25 November 2026. Interviews will then be held between 6-15 January 2027. This is an opportunity for you to present your innovation in more detail and discuss its potential impact within the NHS.
Final selection, due diligence & onboarding
The NIA Board makes final decisions in February, followed by due diligence checks. Successful candidates are then onboarded and officially launched as NIA Fellows in March, beginning their journey of support and national impact.
Who should apply?
The NIA Fellowship Programme is for innovators, clinicians, and healthcare professionals who have developed a validated solution that can improve patient care and transform the NHS.
Nolan principles
The NIA Fellowship expects individuals to uphold the highest ethical standards, as outlined in the Nolan Principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, transparency, honesty, and leadership.
If your work reflects these values and you are dedicated to improving the NHS with integrity and transparency, the NIA Fellowship Programme is an ideal opportunity to align your impact with these guiding principles.
Proven impact
The NIA looks for individuals whose innovations have already demonstrated measurable, real-world results in healthcare. If your solution has shown proven success in improving patient care or operational efficiency, we want to hear from you.
Patient benefit
The NIA seeks innovators who prioritize patient benefit in their work—whether by enhancing care, improving outcomes, or increasing accessibility. If your innovation is designed to make a meaningful difference for patients, especially diverse groups, you are encouraged to apply.
Insights & values
The NIA values individuals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experiences. If you are committed to collaborating, exchanging insights, and promoting values that improve healthcare, the Fellowship is the opportunity to amplify your impact and contribute to a collective NHS vision.
Why apply?
National impact
Engage in a groundbreaking programme with the potential to transform healthcare across the nation. Your innovation will have the opportunity to reach a broader audience, enhance patient outcomes, and set new benchmarks in healthcare delivery.
Invaluable resources
Access a wealth of resources, including essential tools, industry connections, and communications support, designed to propel your innovation forward and maximise its impact.
World-class mentorship
Receive expert guidance from top leaders in healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship. Our dedicated mentors will help you navigate the challenges of scaling your solution and achieving your vision with personalised support and strategic insights.
Collaborative community
Connect with a vibrant network of innovators and thought leaders committed to advancing healthcare. Collaborate, share insights, and work together to drive significant progress and innovation in the field.
Ready to make a difference in the NHS?
If you’ve developed a validated innovation that could transform healthcare, the NIA Fellowship is your chance to scale it for greater impact. Through this programme, you’ll gain access to expert mentorship, funding, and a network of leaders within the NHS, all designed to help you bring your innovation to life on a national scale.
To be notified when applications open, register your interest below
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