Cambridge NeuroWorks named finalist in Tech for Good category at Cambridge Independent Science & Technology Awards 2026
We’re pleased to announce that Cambridge NeuroWorks has been named a finalist in the prestigious "Tech for Good" category at the Cambridge Independent Science & Technology Awards 2026. This recognition is given to organisations harnessing science and technology to deliver meaningful, lasting societal impact.
Cambridge NeuroWorks, powered by the UK R&D funding agency Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA), is working to build a future where neurological conditions no longer limit human potential.
Through its Fellowship programmes and community-building activities, the initiative supports the acceleration of next-generation neurotechnologies designed to treat conditions such as depression, dementia, chronic pain, epilepsy, and injuries to the nervous system.
In just 15 months since launching in December 2024, Cambridge NeuroWorks has established itself as a leading hub for neurotechnology innovation, building momentum across community, capability and capital.
Building a thriving neurotech community
Cambridge NeuroWorks has cultivated a fast-growing network of researchers, innovators and industry leaders, bringing people together through nationwide in-person events, engaging a global audience via virtual programmes, and expanding an active community on Connect: Health Tech.
Accelerating neurotech capability
At the heart of this initiative is the Cambridge NeuroWorks Fellowship Programme - launched to drive bold innovation in neurotechnology, providing funding, mentorship and a dynamic community to advance brain health.
Since inception, the programme has attracted nearly 400 applications from neurotech innovators, with its first cohort of six Fellows already tackling some of the most pressing neurological challenges, from anxiety, stroke and Parkinson's disease to dementia, PTSD and balance disorders. A second cohort of up to 12 new Fellows joins in May 2026, doubling the programme's impact. The programme has also delivered a part-time ‘What If’ programmes to fit in with innovators existing commitments and a ‘Proof-of-Concept’ funding call designed to enable robust experimentation on adventurous, early-stage neurotechnology hypotheses.
Unlocking investment in neurotechnology
Cambridge NeuroWorks' Fellows have already attracted £410,000 in follow-on funding, alongside £1 million in additional follow-on research investment, a clear signal of growing confidence in the sector.
It’s fantastic to hear that Cambridge NeuroWorks has been shortlisted for this award. We’re incredibly proud of the consortium’s work, supporting innovators to tackle some of the most significant neurological challenges and we hope our presence in the final can inspire other neurotech innovators to join us.
John Gourd, CEO, Cambridge Network and Cambridge NeuroWorks Community and Network Lead
This recognition further cements Cambridge NeuroWorks' role at the heart of the Cambridge innovation ecosystem, and its mission to translate cutting-edge neuroscience into technologies that genuinely improve lives.
The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 7 May 2026 at Hinxton Hall.
