How to Submit an Idea
If you’re working within an NHS Trust that subscribes to our services (check the current list here), you can use our simple disclosure form below to share your idea or innovation. All information disclosed will be treated as confidential, and a member of our team will get in touch to learn more.
What happens next?
We begin with an initial evaluation, which typically takes 4-6 weeks. This includes reviewing several key aspects:
- Identifying the unmet need and potential patient benefits
- Assessing the market opportunity
- Evaluating any potential Intellectual Property (IP) rights
- Estimating the development needs and associated costs
- Considering the commercialisation strategy to reach market
We may arrange a meeting to discuss your idea in more detail. After the review, you and your organisation will receive feedback along with recommended next steps. This may include support we can offer to help progress your innovation.
Next steps for your innovation
Recommendations depend on the nature of your idea but may involve IP protection, prototype development, testing and evaluation and commercialisation planning.
Most NHS Trusts and public sector organisations have IP policies outlining how revenue generated from commercialisation is shared. These ‘reward to inventor’ schemes vary by organisation and are typically overseen by the Research and Development department.
Why chose us?
Established in 2004 by founding members Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, we have a substantial track record of commercial success working with partners to bring new medical technologies to market.
“Working with HTE has also been really valuable, for the whole project. I’ve been able to access expert advice from all aspects of the product development pathway.” Consultant, North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust
Confidentiality
It’s very important to seek advice from us before disclosing your ideas to others as it may prevent you from being able to apply for patent protection for your idea. Ideas disclosed to us will be reviewed and considered for further development and support. We treat the information you provide to us as confidential and only use it for the purpose of evaluating your idea.
