KQ Labs opens applications for ninth data-driven health cohort

Applications have opened for the ninth cohort of KQ Labs, a health tech accelerator supporting early-stage companies developing data-driven solutions in drug discovery, digital health and precision medicine.

The programme is delivered by the Francis Crick Institute, with support from Medicines Discovery Catapult (MDC) and Cancer Research Horizons, and runs for five months, providing tailored mentoring, workshops, investor engagement and access to pharmaceutical and funding networks.

Up to ten start-ups will be selected for the 2026 cohort, gaining support to refine their technologies, strengthen commercial strategies and prepare for investment.

Since launching in 2018, KQ Labs has supported 70 start-ups, which have collectively raised more than £230 million in funding. The programme has become a key UK launchpad for data-driven health innovation, particularly in AI-driven drug discovery and precision medicine.

At the 2026 Demo Day, companies from the latest cohort showcased their technologies to investors and industry leaders, with several securing funding support and follow-on investment during the programme.

Oli Rayner, CEO and co-founder of Gramics Bio, said the programme provided access to expert mentoring and industry networks, including experienced biotech entrepreneurs who contributed to company development and governance.

Dr Nicola Heron, Chief Strategy Officer at Medicines Discovery Catapult, said the partnership helps early-stage companies build the commercial and technical capability needed to translate advanced computational science into healthcare solutions.

Jo Mills, Head of Entrepreneurship and KQ Labs at the Francis Crick Institute, said the programme continues to support founders developing technologies across drug discovery, precision medicine and digital health.

Alessia Errico, Associate Director at Cancer Research Horizons, said the initiative helps innovators tackle major challenges in oncology by connecting them with expertise, networks and infrastructure.

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday, 12 August. 

More information online