Healthcare Implementation Fund

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) Healthcare Implementation Fund supports innovative changes to cardiovascular care delivered in real-world UK health services. Grants of up to £500,000 can support early-stage testing or initial scaling of a scoped solution, with the aim of improving patient experience, clinical outcomes and the way services operate.

Who can apply
The lead applicant must work for an NHS organisation or a UK academic institution. Applications should come from multidisciplinary teams that have already identified the service problem and developed a credible solution. Involvement of patients and carers, and support from the appropriate regional innovation body, are required. Commercial and voluntary-sector partners may contribute to NHS-led projects.

What projects need to demonstrate
Proposals should explain what is new, the pathway or service change being tested, the implementation and evaluation approach, measurable outcomes and an itemised budget. Possible benefits include reducing admissions, improving patient flow, supporting quality care, making better use of resources or implementing technology. Applicants should read the full criteria pack before applying.

Applications close at midday on 16 November 2026.

Important eligibility conditions
Support from the relevant regional innovation body, such as a Health Innovation Network in England, is required. Scoping must already be complete. The fund does not pay for initial scoping or routine local service-gap funding. The lead is normally a senior clinician. A non-clinical lead must include a senior clinical co-applicant, and a project or programme manager should not be the lead. Commercial partners must explain their role and fund work relating to their proprietary interests.

How to apply
Use the BHF online grant-management system and select either the early-stage testing or early-stage scaling form. Emailed Word applications are not accepted.