Why BioInnovate
Inspired by Stanford. Embedded in Ireland’s MedTech Capital.
BioInnovate Ireland is built on the globally renowned Stanford Biodesign framework, adapted to Ireland’s unique strengths as one of the world’s top five MedTech hubs. The programme offers a rare opportunity to experience hands-on innovation training, guided by world-class mentors and immersed in real healthcare challenges.
If you’re ready to turn ideas into impactful health technologies - this is where you start.
The Stanford Biodesign Framework
BioInnovate is one of only two global affiliates of the Stanford Center for Biodesign — and the only one in Europe. The programme follows the proven needs-led innovation process, taking participants from the identification of unmet clinical needs through to concept development, prototyping, business planning, and investor engagement.
This structured methodology has produced hundreds of successful health technology start-ups worldwide — and BioInnovate brings that same process, network, and energy to Ireland.
Hands-On Innovation Training
BioInnovate isn’t just theory - it’s an immersive, experiential learning journey.
Over 10 months, participants move through each stage of the innovation process, including an eight-week clinical immersion in hospitals and healthcare environments across Ireland. Here, you’ll observe first-hand the challenges faced by clinicians and patients — and uncover genuine unmet needs that drive meaningful innovation.
From there, you’ll work on prototyping, de-risking concepts, developing business models, and pitching to investors — gaining the full skillset needed to bring ideas to market.
Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
Innovation happens at the intersection of disciplines.
Each BioInnovate team brings together clinical, technical, and commercial expertise, ensuring that every idea is evaluated from multiple perspectives — from engineering feasibility to clinical value and market opportunity.
This collaborative model mirrors how leading MedTech innovations are developed worldwide, preparing participants to thrive in start-ups, industry, or entrepreneurship.
Expert Mentorship and Unmatched Networks
Throughout the programme, participants receive mentorship from senior clinicians, academics, investors, entrepreneurs, and regulatory specialists. You’ll also gain access to Ireland’s powerful MedTech ecosystem — a global network of companies, research centres, hospitals, and innovation hubs.
The BioInnovate community extends far beyond the programme, connecting you with a growing network of alumni, mentors, and partners who are shaping the future of healthcare.
Fully Funded Opportunity
BioInnovate offers one of the most comprehensive innovation training packages in Europe.
Each participant receives a €38,000 tax-free scholarship over 10 months, and programme fees up to €5,750 are covered. Participants also receive access to Ireland’s most prestigious MedTech conferences, expanding their professional network and exposure to global thought leaders.
Since 2024, BioInnovate has been supported under Enterprise Ireland’s Innovators' Initiative Programme, a new €30 million national programme co-funded by the European Union under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). This initiative supports the development of immersive, needs-led innovation training programmes across Ireland. Read more at: Enterprise Ireland Innovators' Initiative
Join the Future of Health Innovation
BioInnovate Ireland isn’t just a programme — it’s a launchpad for the next generation of health technology leaders. Whether your goal is to found a start-up, lead innovation within industry, or transform patient care, BioInnovate gives you the tools, experience, and community to make it happen.
Apply now - and become part of the movement transforming healthcare from the inside out.
