Apply Now: Modernising Bowel Screening Services (United Kingdom)

Contracts for Innovation Cymru is inviting applications for a Phase 2 competition to modernise the bowel screening pre-colonoscopy assessment pathway in Wales. Bowel Screening Wales is seeking innovative approaches to improve participant experience, increase the timeliness of pre-colonoscopy assessments, and help NHS Wales meet future demand. The competition opens on 22 September 2026 and closes on 20 October 2026 at 12:00pm. Bowel Screening Wales is looking for innovative solutions to support service modernisation across the bowel screening pathway following a positive Faecal Immunochemical Testing (FIT) result. The current pre-colonoscopy assessment process is predominantly telephone-based, uses a standardised assessment form, and is delivered during routine office hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm). The competition is outcome-focused and aims to improve how participants access assessments, how the service manages demand, and how information can be used to support participants. The challenge does not prescribe a specific technology, product type, or delivery model.

Not specified in the source: the maximum award per project, eligible cost categories, and whether VAT is excluded from all costs or only from the stated award figure.

Not specified in the source: whether there are restrictions on applicant status (e.g., charities vs. commercial organisations), consortium requirements, or specific exclusion criteria. The competition seeks projects that support the development, refinement, and real-world demonstration of innovative approaches that can improve: The challenge is outcome focused and does not prescribe a specific technology, product type, or delivery model. The current pre-colonoscopy assessment pathway relies heavily on manual and telephone-based activity during office hours, which can limit access for screening participants (particularly those of working age). The challenge also notes workforce pressures, variation in waiting times and participant experience, and limited opportunities to signpost participants to digital resources and video content. By funding innovations that can modernise assessment access and enable better triage and pathway management, Bowel Screening Wales aims to strengthen its ability to meet future demand while improving the participant journey. Not specified in the source: the required application documents, submission format (e.g., portal fields vs. attachments), and any specific evaluation or scoring criteria. What is this competition for? It is for Contracts for Innovation Cymru to modernise the bowel screening pre-colonoscopy assessment pathway in Wales, improving participant experience and assessment timeliness after a positive FIT result. Who is offering the challenge? The challenge is delivered as part of Contracts for Innovation Cymru, with Bowel Screening Wales (NHS Wales) seeking innovative approaches. Innovate UK Business Connect is the programme site hosting the opportunity. Where can projects be delivered? The opportunity is located in Wales. How much funding is available? The source states that £300,000 excluding VAT is available to fund 4–5 projects, subject to change. How much funding will each project receive? Projects will usually be 100% funded. The source does not specify a maximum award per project. When is the deadline to apply? The competition closes on 20 October 2026 at 12:00pm. The time zone is not specified in the source. What types of organisations can apply? Any organisation can apply, and the opportunity is expected to be particularly attractive for SMEs. Review the official Contracts for Innovation Cymru page for “Modernising the Bowel Screening Pathway in Wales” and follow the stated application process and deadlines. If you need clarification on the challenge requirements, consider attending the online applicant briefing on 2 October (9:30am–1:00pm) and use the official contact email for questions: [contact details removed].