From analogue to digital: Leeds at the forefront of health tech transformation

NHS Digital is headquartered in Leeds Wellington Place, which has put the city on the map for health innovation. According to Leeds Academic Health Partnership, the city is ranking third internationally as a health-tech hub, with one of the highest concentrations of health tech employees in the UK: almost two in every 100 of the working age population are employed in the sector, with more than 250 locally headquartered companies. These companies generate more than £3 billion in turnover and employ around 16,000 people. 

Leeds has recognised the importance of assisting local health tech companies through pro-active enterprise and innovation support. The Nexus building at the University of Leeds (pictured above), for instance, is playing a pivotal role in advancing health tech innovation. It serves as a dynamic hub and provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, expert networks and partnerships that streamline the journey from concept to clinical application. 

By connecting innovators with the University's research expertise and the wider health tech ecosystem, Nexus accelerates the development and adoption of transformative medical technologies. This collaborative environment not only enhances patient care, but also strengthens Leeds’s position as a leader in health tech innovation.

The Health Tech Innovation Hub

The Health Tech Innovation Hub, part of the Leeds Innovation Village, is designed to bring together clinicians, entrepreneurs, and academics to accelerate breakthroughs in healthcare technology. A vibrant community of health tech companies has been formed around the project, from start-ups to established international organisations, looking to work with the NHS. The project is expected to generate around 4,000 jobs and contribute £13 billion to the local economy.

Key initiatives strengthening Leeds health tech sector

Leeds’s health tech prominence is further strengthened by several other initiatives, including HealthTech Leeds: a joint research initiative between the University and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. It focuses on accelerating the development and adoption of new health technologies and addressing challenges like early diagnosis. 

These key initiatives within the city will cement it as a leader in health tech by encouraging innovation and supporting the next generation of medical technologies. Beyond economic benefits, the Health Tech Innovation Hub and related programmes will have a significant impact on public health and potentially improve efficiency in healthcare services.

So, what does this all mean for the future of Leeds?

With healthcare making up 61% of its office take-up in the first quarter of 2025, Leeds is expected to attract international investment and drive long-term health tech advancements. Alongside its growing talent pool of more than 11,000 undergraduates and around 3,000 postgraduates training each year on courses relevant to health, care research and innovation, the future’s looking promising.

The city’s strategic investments in innovation infrastructure is creating an ecosystem where global players will be drawn in by talent, connectivity, and cutting-edge facilities. At the same time, smaller firms benefit from tailored support, collaborative networks, and access to research expertise, enabling them to scale without relocating. This dual approach – attracting anchor institutions while nurturing homegrown innovation – ensures that Leeds not only grows its healthcare footprint, but also draws in investment, which will define its future economy.

Further information

Contact Toby Nield or Clare Bailey

Savills Leeds