Applications are now open for the 2026/27 CHI-Zone Fellowship, a fully funded programme designed to bring together a diverse cohort of leaders, innovators and change-makers from across health, social care, academia, industry, technology, start-ups and the third sector. 

As we reflected on last year's Fellowship, one theme stood out above all others: the quality of the conversations. While the programme was designed to develop commercial skills, expand networks and explore the future of health innovation, what emerged was something even more valuable. Participants created a space where ideas could be tested, assumptions challenged and new perspectives welcomed. Conversations were open, supportive and respectful, often developing naturally as Fellows learned from one another's experiences. We’re excited to build on this for 2026. 

The aim of the CHI-Zone Fellowship was to bring together a diverse cohort of innovators spanning multiple sectors and professions, with the goal of fostering richer, more varied perspectives on the future of mental health innovation. In practice, it surpassed expectations, creating a rare and valuable opportunity for cross‑sector peer learning, offering fresh insights, and ultimately building relationships and collaborations to drive meaningful change.