Isle of man launches fourth annual Innovation Challenge 

Entries focused on health and social care

There's a chance for people to come up with ideas that could help reshape healthcare on the Island.

The 2026 Innovation Challenge, led by Digital isle of Man and the Department for Enterprise, has been launched with entries to be centred on health and social care.

Businesses and entrepreneurs from around the world and the Island can take part, with the three key themes being working smarter, wellness and home first.

The aim is to improve patient experiences and enhance service delivery 

Since its inception, the Innovation Challenge has attracted over 130 businesses from more than 20 countries, with past winners delivering solutions across FinTech, Cleantech, and Data and AI.  

Minister for Enterprise, Tim Johnston MHK, says:  "This is the fourth year that the Executive Agencies have delivered the Innovation Challenge, each time addressing real issues facing local businesses and our community, and attracting innovative solutions from around the world to support the Island’s development.

"I am pleased to see this year’s focus on healthcare, and I believe it provides a valuable opportunity for the Isle of Man to leverage global expertise and innovation to improve patient experience, increase efficiency, and strengthen workforce capacity. I look forward to welcoming innovators from across the globe as we work together to explore meaningful solutions that will benefit our community and economy."

Minister for Health and Social Care Claire Christian MHK, says: "The Isle of Man is taking a bold and forward-looking approach to health innovation. By bringing together government, healthcare providers, and global technology leaders, we are creating an environment where transformative ideas can thrive. This Challenge is about delivering real benefits for users, improving outcomes, enhancing experiences, and ensuring our system is fit for the future.

"Working collaboratively with Digital Isle of Man, Manx Care, and Public Health gives technology companies a unique opportunity to work directly with clinicians and service teams on solutions rooted in real need and real-world application."

The focus on healthcare has also been welcomed by Chief Executive of Manx Care Teresa Cope. She says: "Innovation is essential to strengthening how we deliver care across the Isle of Man. The Innovation Challenge gives Manx Care the opportunity to discover new ideas and technologies that can make a real, measurable difference to the lives of our service users and the staff who support them.

"By working with international innovators and our Government partners, and testing solutions in real-world settings, we can accelerate improvements that streamline pathways, enhance experience, and help us deliver safe, sustainable, and compassionate care for our community."

2026 Challenge Finalists will be announced in April 2026, based on the ambition, market potential and scalability of their solution. 

Over the following months, the cohort will work to further develop their solutions, before presenting them at the Innovation Challenge Finale Day on 25 June 2026. 

Winners of the 2026 Innovation Challenge will receive extended access to mentors, potential investors, and regulatory guidance for six months, enabling them to further develop their solutions. 

Applications are open until 27 February and you can find out more here.