A new and innovative program, Citizen First LCR, is being launched in Liverpool City Region to address health and care disparities in local communities. The initiative aims to empower individuals who have firsthand experience with health and care challenges to lead the way in finding solutions. The program is currently seeking eight residents with compelling business ideas that address these issues. Successful applicants will receive a year’s Real Living Wage salary, seed funding, and extensive support, including guidance from a business advisor and access to cutting-edge technology from the University of Liverpool.
Citizen First LCR is part of the University of Liverpool’s Civic HealthTech Innovation Zone, which is funded by the Liverpool City Region Life Sciences Innovation Zone Programme. This program introduces Public Life’s Citizen Incubator model to Liverpool for the first time, focusing on recruiting local individuals without the need for traditional resumes. Funded in part by the Fusion21 Foundation and local housing associations, the initiative aims to support entrepreneurs in developing innovative businesses that tackle social issues within their communities.
Selected participants in Citizen First LCR will benefit from the CHI-Zone’s expertise in health and care-tech development, gaining access to academic and technical support. The program encourages participants to apply data, AI, and technology to their business ideas while engaging directly with customers and communities. Throughout the year, they will have the opportunity to refine their business model, build their brand, integrate technology, and seek potential investors to take their venture to the next level.
The focus of the project is on finding creative business ideas that offer new approaches to addressing health and care challenges rooted in the experiences of local communities. Rather than emphasizing qualifications or work history, the recruitment process is centered on lived experience and entrepreneurial drive. Recruitment for the program is open until May 4th, 2025, with in-person and online events scheduled across the Liverpool City Region. More information about the program and how to apply can be found on the Public Life website
Read the full article on Liverpool Express here: Read More
