SBRI Challenge - Accelerating the diagnosis, management and support of people diagnosed with cancer in Wales and Northern Ireland

This exciting first of its kind Cancer Challenge is a collaboration between the SBRI Centre of Excellence in Wales and the Innovation and Market Development Unit in Northern Ireland. The challenge seeks innovations that lead to earlier, faster diagnosis, reduction in waiting times, improvements to the efficiency and efficacy of treatment and support palliative care. Challenge Theme Typically, SBRI challenges commence with a Phase 1 Feasibility stage. However, for this challenge we are looking for real-world trials and therefore will not be supporting Phase 1 or 2 projects. We are seeking to identify and support the delivery of Phase 3 collaborative projects that can demonstrate the potential and scalability of emerging and near-to-market solutions. Successful outcomes should demonstrate measurable improvements in cancer patient outcomes, reduce health inequalities and provide advancements in efficacy/efficiency in one or more of the following key areas: - Cancer screening/earlier diagnosis - Faster diagnosis - Reduced waiting times - Cancer treatments including Surgery, Radiotherapy and Systemic Therapy - Acute Oncology Services - Specialist Cancer Services - Palliative Care The key focus will be on real-world trials of emerging and near-to-market innovations within Northern Ireland and/or Wales which will demonstrate efficacy, sustainability of service, affordability and scalability of solutions that can be delivered at pace where financial viability will be key. We are not seeking research projects such as early feasibility studies or evidence generation studies aimed at developing the product/solution further. However, we are seeking rigorous evaluations and adoption readiness reports that support the required evidence base for service development and potential scale-up across Wales and Northern Ireland, which may also be valid in other health care contexts. If project applications are seeking to build upon previous real word trials/small-scale testing, applications must clearly articulate the next phase and how this funding will help accelerate this work, outlining any previous adoption barriers and demonstrating how these will be addressed. - Applications are invited to include a named health, public or third sector collaborator within Wales or Northern Ireland who has committed to their involvement in the project, evidenced by a signed letter of support. However, innovations will be evaluated on merit, and we will endeavour to facilitate partnerships for those who do not have any existing relationships; - Funding for collaborator costs should be included as a subcontractor cost in the project applications; - Projects can include more than one subcontractor; however, the involvement and role of each organisation should be clearly specified and the commitment evidenced, ideally with named individuals stated in the application; - Multi-sector applications will be welcomed – in particular, applications that demonstrate significant benefits for NHS & Third Sector organisations; - Academic partners are also welcomed, particularly in relation to independent evaluation and meeting any required technical/scientific testing. Prior to the award of contract, successful applications will be required to evidence that they have obtained relevant certification/approvals and are suitably positioned to proceed upon project commencement The challenge has been posted on the 28th of August 2024 with a closing date of the 27th of September 2024. For furhter informaiton or to submit a bid: https://sdi.click/sbricancerchallenge