The Midlands has long been a region synonymous with innovation, from its role in the industrial revolution to its emergence as a growing tech hub. Today, both the West and East Midlands are uniquely positioned to lead in AI-driven HealthTech and beyond. By building on their existing strengths, fostering collaboration, and addressing challenges, the Midlands can create a distinct identity in the UK’s AI ecosystem.

A Region of Opportunity and Growth

The West Midlands: A Foundation of HealthTech Excellence

The West Midlands has established itself as a pioneer in AI and HealthTech innovation. Institutions such as the University of Birmingham and Aston University are driving cutting-edge research, while initiatives like the Birmingham Health Innovation Campus are enabling start-ups to bring new solutions to market. NHS Trusts, including University Hospitals Birmingham, are integrating AI into their workflows, demonstrating the practical benefits of AI for healthcare.

The East Midlands: A Hub for Diagnostics and MedTech

Meanwhile, the East Midlands is making significant strides in complementary areas. The region’s pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, bolstered by academic powerhouses like the University of Nottingham and Loughborough University, are advancing medtech innovation and AI-powered diagnostics. Together, these regions form a powerful ecosystem capable of addressing both local and global challenges.

Why AI in the Midlands Matters

The Midlands isn’t just participating in the AI revolution—it’s shaping it. Here’s how the region is making its mark:

1. HealthTech Leadership
   • Innovations like RapidAI at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham are improving patient outcomes in areas such as stroke care.
   • East Midlands research hubs are developing AI-driven diagnostic tools that enhance efficiency and accuracy.
2. Industrial AI Applications
   • With its rich manufacturing history, the Midlands is well-equipped to adopt AI solutions for optimising supply chains, automating processes, and improving quality control.
3. A Thriving Start-Up Ecosystem
   • Programmes like SPARK The Midlands and funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund are providing crucial support for early-stage companies, enabling them to scale and succeed.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite its strengths, the Midlands faces challenges that need addressing to reach its full potential:

• Access to Capital: The region still lags behind London and Cambridge in securing venture capital, which restricts the growth of innovative start-ups.‍
• Talent Retention: While the Midlands produces a wealth of skilled graduates, many are drawn to larger cities with more lucrative opportunities.

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To truly capitalise on the Midlands’ potential, we must not only invest in start-ups and infrastructure but also create an environment that inspires top talent to stay and thrive. Collaboration and innovation go hand in hand, and the Midlands has everything it takes to lead the UK’s AI charge.

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Martin Sandhu

Managing Partner at nuom

Keeping AI Human-Centred

At nuom, we believe that technology should serve people first and foremost. This principle guides our approach to every project, ensuring that solutions are designed with the end user in mind. Whether it’s improving patient experiences or empowering clinicians, we strive to create innovations that enhance human connections rather than replace them.

Through human-centred design (HCD) and service design principles, we consider how AI fits into the bigger picture—ensuring every solution is meaningful, efficient, and deeply empathetic.

Conclusion: The Future of AI in the Midlands

The Midlands stands at the forefront of applied AI innovation, with a unique opportunity to lead in HealthTech and industrial AI applications. By fostering collaboration, addressing systemic challenges, and keeping people at the heart of technological advancement, the region can set a new standard for what AI can achieve.

The Midlands doesn’t need to replicate London or Cambridge. Its strength lies in its ability to create real-world solutions that balance technological progress with human impact. By focusing on what it does best, the Midlands can shape a brighter, more connected future for everyone.