13 startups selected to join Microsoft AI for Social Impact programme

The newly selected participants in the Microsoft AI for Social Impact programme, managed in partnership with Social Tech Trust, have been helping the UK’s healthcare, manufacturing and resource sectors recover from the impact of Covid-19.

As part of the four-month scheme, the companies will receive support on business development, such as commercial strategy and fundraising, as well as delivering ethical AI, and managing social impact, including user engagement.

Additionally, the startups will receive Azure credits and access to workshops, 1:1 coaching and events to help them grow, and will also receive ongoing support upon completion of the programme in June.

Commenting on the participating startups in the AI for Social Impact scheme, Microsoft UK CEO Clare Barclay said: “The passion of these entrepreneurs for solving some of the world’s most critical and challenging societal issues is inspiring.

“I look forward to seeing their success and the impact these great businesses will have on healthcare and manufacturing in the UK.”

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The programme participants

The startups selected by Microsoft to join the AI for Social Impact programme were as follows:

  • C the Signs – a digital platform that uses AI to identify cancer risk at a much earlier stage
  • CanSense – a blood diagnostics platform for the early detection of bowel cancer
  • CarelQ – chronic disease management platform to aid collaboration between clinicians and patients
  • e-Surgery – API that enables third parties to offer private prescription medication on their website
  • Fabriq – a software platform designed to making buildings more sustainable
  • FollowApp Care – a platform for connecting dentists and patients through personalised digital care journeys
  • iLoF – a cloud-based library of diseases biomarkers and biological profiles, powered by AI and photonics
  • Medicspot – a platform for improving remote consultations and making healthcare accessible in every community
  • MediShout – an app that helps hospitals to report equipment and facility issues quicker
  • Neuer Energy – a platform that looks to simplify net zero planning, procurement and transparency
  • Podium Analytics – a platform that aims to reduce incidence and long-term injury among young sports players
  • SafetyNet Technologies – a platform that looks to enable sustainable practices in the fishing industry
  • The Data Analysis Bureau – a hub that uses machine learning solutions to help organisations have impact

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“The team is delighted to be part of this year Microsoft AI for Social Impact cohort,” said Nadia Laabs, co-founder and COO at SafetyNet Technologies.

“Joining the programme will help us combine our social and environmental purpose with new data-led solutions to increase understanding of our oceans.”

Dr Ash Kalraiya, founder and chief executive of MediShout, said: “Being accepted onto the programme is brilliant for us. We knew about the programme’s amazing reputation, and meeting Microsoft’s fantastic team over the past few weeks made us even more keen to join.

“We look forward to further developing our technology with Microsoft’s support, so we can deliver excellent value to healthcare organisations.”

More information on the programme can be found here.

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Aaron Hurst

Aaron Hurst is Information Age's senior reporter, providing news and features around the hottest trends across the tech industry.