From concept to clinic: pitching the next big breakthrough
Big ideas. Live challenge. Real clinical impact.

Applications now open for the AI Conference premier innovation forum.

Do you have an AI concept that could revolutionise radiology, oncology or wider healthcare, but isn’t yet supported by a full evidence base or published study? From Concept to Clinic is a high-profile live session designed to bridge the gap between early-stage ideas and real-world clinical impact. This forum gives innovators the opportunity to test their concepts against the realities of clinical need, patient safety and system-led considerations.

Why apply?

• Expert testing: Stress-test your idea before implementation and receive direct constructive challenge from a panel of senior leaders
• High-level visibility: Pitch to an audience of clinicians, technologists, and industry investors
• Refine your pathway: from concepts to clinics
• Industry recognition: Outstanding entries will be recognised for breakthrough potential, clinical impact and excellence in safe and ethical AI.

Deadline for applications: Tuesday 26 May 2026, 23:59 (BST)

The challenge
Chaired by Professor Tony Young, the innovation panel brings together cross-sector leaders actively shaping the future of AI in healthcare. Each idea will be evaluated against clearly defined criteria, including:

• Clinical relevance: does it solve a problem?
• Feasibility: can it be built and integrated?
• Safety and governance: is it ethical and secure?
• Scalability: can it work across different trusts or systems?
• Readiness for implementation: is there a credible pathway to impact?

This is not an abstract or poster competition. It is a live evaluation of emerging ideas, designed to reflect the realities of clinical practice and implementation. Please note: at least one team member of each team must be registered to attend the conference.

What we’re looking for
We’re seeking ambitious, practical AI concepts at the concept or prototype stage. You don’t need a published study, you need clear thinking and relevance. We welcome innovations that: 

• Support clinical decision-making
• Optimise workflow or service delivery
• Address implementation and adoption hurdles
• Strengthen education and workforce development
• Enhance governance, safety and ethical use of AI

Who can apply?
Open globally to clinicians and clinical teams, researchers and academics, start-ups and SMEs, industry innovators, multidisciplinary collaborations 

How it works

1. Submit– a short, structured proposal (and optional video pitch) outlining the clinical problem your AI seeks to address, your proposed AI solution, key risks, feasibility and anticipated impact. 
2. Shortlist – up to 10 teams will be selected to present live at the conference.
3. Pitch – 3 minutes for each presentation (max 3 slides), plus 3 minutes of expert Q&A by The Innovation Panel.

Are you ready to move from concept to clinic?

If your idea could change practice, improve outcomes or reshape healthcare delivery, submit your application today!