91. University of Huddersfield- Health and Wellbeing Innovation Centre evaluation Case Study
Kada Research were commissioned by the University of Huddersfield in June 2024 to undertake an evaluation of their £42.2m Health Innovation programme. The programme, utilising £3.8 million of UKSPF funds, aimed to stimulate innovation around health and wellbeing within West Yorkshire’s business ecosystem.
The programme was delivered between September 2023 and March 2025, establishing a Health & Wellbeing Innovation Centre that provided a suite of business support initiatives, events, mentoring, proof-of-concept grants as well as a unique Healthtech makerspace and visualisation suite offering access to bespoke equipment and facilities. Following the conclusion of the business support element in March 2025, 385 businesses had been supported and following the end of UKSPF funding activity has continued in the form of an incubator programme funded through the West Yorkshire Investment Zone.
Kada’s evaluation adopted a mixed methods approach to assess the programme’ s effectiveness in delivering against the four objectives outlined within the initial UKSPF application. The programme evidenced strong performance with all outputs met or exceeded as a result of the high levels of engagement, effective delivery mechanisms and strong strategic partnerships cultivated with partners.
In respect to the economic impact, over the appraisal period the business support element of the Health Innovation programme generated a Net Present Value (NPV) of £5.41m. With total UKSPF revenue expenditure, in addition to public sector funding, the NPV impact represents a benefit cost ratio of 4.2:1.
There were other notable impacts. The development of the Innovation Centre has boosted local perceptions of Huddersfield and increasing pride of place and the programme is expected to increase capacity and boost innovation within the NHS more widely, resulting in improved and faster patient care. Without the UKSPF funding, connections between local businesses and the NHS likely would not have been established.
“Working with Kada Research was a really positive experience. The team brought a thoughtful, collaborative approach to the evaluation, helping us to clearly evidence the impact of the Huddersfield Health Innovation Partnership. Their insight and professionalism were invaluable in capturing the value created for businesses and the wider health and wellbeing ecosystem.”
If you are thinking about commissioning an evaluation study or if you would like to talk through an idea or hear about this work, you can contact us at info@kadaresearch.co.uk.
