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Topic : News and Press Type : Press Release

Invest Northern Ireland has become the latest official sponsor of the ABHI US Accelerator, a move set to boost Northern Ireland’s HealthTech sector by supporting companies looking to expand into the US market. The partnership will also play a key role in attracting life sciences investment back to Northern Ireland, leveraging the region’s strong innovation ecosystem and expertise.

The ABHI US Accelerator is a well-established programme designed to support UK HealthTech companies in their entry and expansion into the US market. Through mentorship, market access support, and strategic guidance, the programme has been instrumental in fostering innovation and growth for participating companies. With Invest Northern Ireland’s sponsorship, even more Northern Ireland-based businesses will be able to leverage these benefits, driving international success and attracting investment back to the region.

Michael Conlon, Trade Business Development Director, Technology & Life Sciences, Invest Northern Ireland – Americas, said: “We are thrilled to partner with ABHI as an official sponsor of their US Accelerator Programme. This initiative has played a vital role in driving innovation and business growth for Northern Ireland’s HealthTech companies, and our collaboration will further expand opportunities in the US market. At the same time, it reinforces Northern Ireland’s position as a global hub for life sciences investment, strengthening ties between our dynamic sector and international markets.”

Northern Ireland’s HealthTech industry, rooted in a rich legacy, is strengthened by strong government support, academic institutions, and a mix of innovative local and global companies. The region’s academic, research, and innovation landscape is significantly influenced by prestigious universities like Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University, along with 18 centres of excellence in life and health sciences. These form a solid foundation for future growth, instilling confidence in the industry’s potential and making Northern Ireland a prime destination for investment.

Paul Benton, Managing Director, International at ABHI, added: “It is fantastic to have the support of Invest Northern Ireland as a sponsor of the ABHI US Accelerator. Their backing will not only provide invaluable assistance to Northern Irish companies entering the US market, but will also help build vital connections with hospital groups and insurers through our extensive network. This collaboration will enable more companies to scale internationally while showcasing Northern Ireland’s world-class HealthTech sector and attracting further investment back into the region.”

The 2025 ABHI US Accelerator will support a dynamic cohort of UK HealthTech businesses, including Northern Ireland-based Cirdan and Seating Matters, which will benefit from trade visits to key US healthcare hubs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Maryland, Washington D.C., California, and Arizona. These visits present an unparalleled opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland’s innovation on the global stage within the world’s largest healthcare system.

Past cohorts have included leading Northern Ireland companies such as Axial 3D and Kinsetsu, both of which have successfully expanded their presence in the US market through the programme. A cornerstone of the ABHI US Accelerator’s success is its deep-rooted partnerships with leading US health systems, which provide year-round support from faculty and industry experts. With ABHI’s extensive network, spanning over 70 healthcare systems and thousands of hospitals, UK companies gain direct access to receptive US customers.

For more information, visit www.abhi.org.uk/international/abhi-us-accelerator/