Wessex: A Hub of Innovation & Growth

By Nicola Bent, CEO of Health Innovation Wessex

When we talk about health innovation in the UK, the conversation often gravitates toward London, Oxford, or Cambridge. But there’s a region that’s rapidly—and quietly—emerging as a national and global leader in life sciences, digital health, and translational research: Wessex.

As CEO of a health innovation organization embedded in this region, I’ve seen first hand how Wessex is redefining what’s possible when academia, industry, and public services work in true partnership.

A Thriving Life Sciences Ecosystem

Wessex is home to over 150 life science businesses generating £6.3 billion in turnover across the South East. Southampton Science Park alone hosts 90 companies, 15% of which are spin-outs, and new developments such as Bournemouth’s Talbot Quarter Innovation District are expanding our innovation footprint.

World-Class Academic Firepower

Our academic institutions are not just producing talent—they’re shaping the future of healthcare. The University of Southampton ranks in the top 10% nationally and 4th in the Russell Group for research quality. The University of Portsmouth is advancing biomedical engineering and AI, while Bournemouth University leads in ageing and dementia research. The Health Sciences University, with campuses in Bournemouth and London, brings unique clinical capabilities to the region.

Real World Research, Real World Results

Wessex is home to the UK’s first Centre for Cancer Immunology and the National Biofilms Innovation Centre. These aren’t just research hubs—they’re engines of real world impact. Wessex Health Partners, supported by NIHR-funded infrastructure, are accelerating the translation of research into practice, from ageing and dementia to healthcare modelling and diagnostics.

A Digital Economy Built for Health Innovation

With 7,500 digital enterprises contributing £5.8 billion annually to Hampshire’s GVA—and Bournemouth’s digital economy projected to reach £360 million by 2025—Wessex is a digital powerhouse. Initiatives like the Wessex Secure Data Environment and the Dorset Intelligence and Insight Service are enabling secure, ethical, and scalable data innovation.

A Region Ready for What’s Next

Perhaps most exciting are the devolution plans on the horizon. By 2026, Mayoral Combined Authorities across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth, Southampton, Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire could unlock new levels of regional autonomy, investment, and collaboration.

At Health Innovation Wessex, we believe that health innovation thrives where ecosystems are connected, agile, and mission-driven. Wessex embodies that vision. It’s not just a place where innovation happens—it’s a place where innovation is designed to serve people, communities, and the future of healthcare.

If you’re an investor, policymaker, academic, or entrepreneur looking to make a meaningful impact, I invite you to take a closer look at Wessex. The future of health innovation is already here.

Let’s connect if you’re interested in collaborating, investing, or learning more about the Wessex ecosystem for research, innovation and economic growth.