York and North Yorkshire Life Sciences sector increases mobilisation and engagement
A new initiative to strengthen York and North Yorkshire’s health and life sciences sector has officially launched with the York and North Yorkshire Health and Life Sciences Cluster Mobilisation Project. The programme aims to position the region as a leading hub for health and life sciences, fostering collaboration, visibility and strategic focus across industry, academia and the public sector.
The project will develop a shared narrative, improve regional connectivity and unlock opportunities for investment, innovation and commercialisation. Particular attention will be given to supporting startups and spinouts from the University of York, alongside broader skills development across the region.
Funding has been secured through a Sector Mobilisation Grant from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority Business Innovation Fund, introduced by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire. The University of York and several local businesses also backed the funding bid, providing vital support that helped secure the award.
Throughout 2026, the mobilisation project will deliver a programme of engagement to ensure the priorities and needs of the local life sciences community are identified. The York and North Yorkshire Life Sciences Forum is scheduled for Wednesday 25th February 2026 at York Biotech Campus, offering a platform for stakeholders to explore priorities, share insights and discuss how regional organisations can best support business growth and innovation.
As a first step, leaders from across the local life sciences community came together for a roundtable discussion in York, hosted by Bionow. The session provided insight into opportunities and challenges facing the sector and will help mobilise and showcase the network going forward. Discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening regional connections, attracting investment, supporting commercialisation and building on the area’s achievements in skills development. Ideas for the upcoming conference and longer-term engagement were also explored, ensuring the initiative is informed by those at the heart of York and North Yorkshire’s life sciences sector.
The roundtable marks the beginning of a sustained programme of consultation and activity, with insights gathered helping to guide the development of a vibrant, self-sustaining Life Science business community delivering lasting benefits to the region.
Commenting on the York and North Yorkshire Health and Life Sciences Cluster Mobilisation Project, David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire said: "York and North Yorkshire has the talented scientists and businesses, but we need to do more to take our ideas from the lab to a place where they can help people.
“That’s why we’re bringing our academics, businesses and industry partners together to build up our health and life sciences cluster.
“When we give this vital sector the booster it needs, we can ensure that the next generation of breakthroughs happen right here.”