£5m legacy of healthcare programme

The Investing in Health programme, funded by Yorkshire Forward, has worked with more than 100 companies since it was launched in February 2009. Nearly 70 individuals have been supported through skills development including mentoring, peer learning and presentation techniques.

The programme, managed by Grant Thornton, also claims to have helped create and safeguard jobs in the region.

Lisa Ward, manager of Investing in Health at Grant Thornton, said: “The effects of the recession has resulted in many private equity providers focusing on value creation and preservation of existing portfolio companies, with very few new investments made over the last 18 months.

“However, we are hopeful that we will see an increase in activity in 2011.

“This is exemplified by the number of our programme companies who are due to close an investment round later this year.”

The two-year programme, which is coming to an end, helped companies via mentoring, workshops and investor introductions.

“We hope that the programme will leave a lasting legacy for the region through its established investor and peer network,” added Ms Ward.

“Healthcare technology companies face another challenging couple of years ahead and so having a strong network of contacts and support will be crucial to the growth of the sector in the region.”