A spinout company from the University of Manchester has received significant recognition by winning the Product of the Year award at the 2026 BioNow Awards. The awards honour excellence within the life sciences sector in Northern England, highlighting organizations that make a meaningful impact through scientific innovation and healthcare advancements.
The accolade was accepted by Professor Emma Stanmore, the CEO of Koku Health, at the Concorde Conference Centre in Greater Manchester last week. Koku Health, which stands for “Keep-On-Keep-Up,” is an NHS-approved health platform designed to assist older adults in improving their balance and strength, thereby promoting safety and independence.
Koku Health has been integrated into various NHS programmes, care homes, and is utilized by older individuals at home. It aims to enhance strength, balance, and overall independence, while also preventing falls. Research indicates that the platform effectively reduces functional decline, helping elderly users maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. This is particularly significant as falls are a leading cause of injury, hospital admissions, and loss of independence in older adults, posing a considerable challenge to healthcare systems both in the UK and worldwide.
By merging clinically validated exercise programmes with appealing digital design, Koku Health encourages consistent participation in strength and balance training that can be safely conducted at home. The platform offers personalized exercises tailored to users’ abilities, allowing them to progress at their own pace while remaining motivated through game-like features. Additionally, healthcare providers can leverage this platform to support preventative care strategies aimed at enhancing mobility, strength, and confidence among aging populations.
The BioNow Awards this year attracted a record 149 applications from 86 organizations, showcasing the strength and diversity of innovation in the region. Professor Stanmore, who leads the Gerontology and Healthy Ageing Research Group at the University of Manchester’s School of Health Sciences, expressed her pride in the recognition. She stated, “This award is a fantastic recognition of the work our team has done to create a solution that genuinely improves people’s lives.”
She emphasized the mission of Koku Health, saying, “Our goal has always been to help older adults stay stronger, safer and more independent for longer, and we are incredibly proud to see KOKU recognized for the positive impact it is already making.”
Professor Stanmore highlighted the growing significance of digital health technologies, noting that Koku Health combines clinical evidence with scalable solutions capable of reaching extensive patient populations. The platform is expanding its partnerships with healthcare providers and organizations focused on healthy aging, responding to the increasing demand for digital tools that support preventative care and long-term well-being.
BioNow, the organization behind the awards, is dedicated to supporting and connecting companies, universities, and professionals within the life sciences and biotech sectors across Northern England. It provides vital networking opportunities, events, industry advocacy, and business support, all aimed at nurturing the regional life sciences ecosystem.
