FHL - Innovation Stimulation Open Call

We focused on how health, behavioural and financial data can be used to generate early‑warning insights that identify when people may be entering periods of financial vulnerability due to health changes. During the call, applicants explored: Early indicators of financial stress linked to health events; Responsible, privacy‑preserving data use to anticipate risk and enable timely intervention; Models to help providers identify when support may be needed

We explored how dynamic, personalised scenario‑planning tools can help individuals and providers model the financial impact of later‑life health events. During the call, applicants explored: Planning tools that reflect changing health and care needs; Scenario modelling for longevity, income changes and care transitions; Services that support better long‑term financial decision‑making

We explored how to ensure high‑quality, permissioned and ethically governed data flows across health, financial and public‑sector systems to support better later‑life services. During the call, applicants explored: Ethical data‑governance models; Consent‑driven data‑sharing approaches; Ways to improve trust, transparency and data quality

We explored how technology can help people navigate the fragmented ecosystem of health services, social care, pensions, insurance and benefits as later‑life needs evolve. During the call, applicants explored: Tools that simplify access across multiple systems; Navigation and coordination services; Solutions that reduce complexity and stress

We explored how to strengthen financial confidence and decision‑making for older adults, reducing anxiety and supporting long‑term wellbeing. During the call, applicants explored: Ways to improve confidence and understanding; Approaches to reduce cognitive and emotional burden; Tools and services that support people through complex or high‑stakes decisions

We explored how to make digital financial services more accessible, trustworthy and supportive for older adults and people with health‑related barriers. During the call, applicants explored: Inclusive, accessible service and content design; Trust, usability and assisted‑support features; Adapting digital journeys for later‑life needs

We focused on understanding the problem, engaging with research insights and refining scope. In the first week of February, selected participants were introduced to interested partner organisations and potential partnership opportunities. We also outlined key enablers and constraints (e.g. data sharing, ethics and commercial model) for ideas to progress.

Teams developed and tested solution concepts, exploring feasibility and constraints. In the second week, we set up live (primarily remote) collaboration sessions between teams and partners to iterate concepts and address emerging challenges.

Teams refined concepts and prepared for demonstration. They accessed: 1) Deep dives with industry experts on technical requirements, regulatory considerations and other critical aspects; 2) Pitch practice and guidance from the Lab team ahead of Demonstrator Day and the Conference.

We showcased learning, concepts and prototypes to industry, policy and ecosystem stakeholders, giving teams the opportunity to demonstrate solutions directly to decision‑makers from partner organisations.

On 19 March at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, we hosted a national conference connecting industry, academia and the tech ecosystem across Scotland and beyond. All selected tech teams showcased their technology and solutions at the event.