Canadian medical technology company Icentia has established and expanded its UK operations in York, citing the city’s talent pool, infrastructure, and tailored business support as key enablers of growth.
Founded in Quebec in 2012, Icentia develops wearable ECG devices that monitor cardiac rhythms and support early diagnosis of heart conditions. After a monitoring period of up to 14 days, patients return the devices by post to Icentia’s UK base in Monks Cross, where cardiac physiologists analyse the data and send results directly to clinicians.
The company initially launched at York Science Park and later relocated to larger premises at Monks Cross to accommodate its growing operations. Icentia has recruited several graduates from the University of York and York St John University, and continues to benefit from the region’s skilled workforce.
The City of York Council’s Economic Growth team has played a key role in the company’s growth. Assistance included site identification, local network access, funding introductions, and guidance on sustainability initiatives such as a bespoke Carbon Reduction Plan. The business is also navigating exports into Europe with the council’s help amid wider regulatory changes.
Icentia’s experience highlights the value of regional partnerships in supporting international firms to scale and embed within the UK’s life sciences sector.
