As part of the programme, which is managed in partnership with Social Tech Trust, Microsoft will work with the startups to develop artificial intelligence solutions that can be used by organisations to improve people’s lives and the world around us.

C the Signs, for example, is a digital platform that uses AI to identify patients at risk of cancer at a much earlier stage. Fabriq is a software platform designed to making buildings more sustainable. SafetyNet Technologies (main pic, above) has created a device that converts fishing boats into scientific vessels, allowing scientists to have a deeper understanding of the oceans, help reduce wastage in the seafood industry and assist climate modelling.

Nadia Laabs, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Office at SafetyNet Technologies, said: “The team is delighted to be part of this year Microsoft AI for Social Impact cohort. Joining the programme will help us combine our social and environmental purpose with new data-led solutions to increase understanding of our oceans.”

The other companies joining Microsoft’s cohort are:

• CanSense - accurate, rapid, non-invasive, blood diagnostic for the early detection of cancer
• CarelQ - chronic disease management platform to help clinicians and patients collaborate
• e-Surgery - API that enables third parties to offer private prescription medication on their website
• FollowApp Care - bringing dentists and patients together through personalised digital care journeys
• iLoF - using AI and photonics to build a cloud-based library of diseases biomarkers and biological profiles
• Medicspot - Improving remote consultations and making healthcare accessible in every community
• MediShout - helping hospitals become digitally smarter
• Neuer Energy - simplifies net zero planning, procurement and transparency
• Podium Analytics - digital platform that aims to transform the relationship young sports players - and their parents, teachers, coaches and schools - have with injury
• The Data Analysis Bureau - using machine learning solutions to help organisations have impact

The four-month programme offers support on business development, including commercial strategy and raising funds; the fundamentals of AI, including ethical principles, and social impact, including user engagement and managing impact. The startups will also receive Azure credits and access to workshops, 1:1 coaching and events to help them grow. They will also receive ongoing support after they leave the programme in June.

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.”

Damian Smith, Chief Technology Officer of Podium Analytics, said he was “looking forward to learning from and connecting with Microsoft experts as well as the rest of the programme cohort.”

Clare Barclay, Microsoft UK CEO, said she was looking forward to seeing the success of the latest cohort. “The passion of these entrepreneurs for solving some of the world’s most critical and challenging societal issues is inspiring,” she said. “I look forward to seeing their success and the impact these great businesses will have on healthcare and manufacturing in the UK.”