The Future Health Mission 2011 will give the entrepreneurs behind these growing healthcare technology companies the opportunity to engage with key people from the US's top technology businesses. With current health requirements stimulating the need for business innovation, the UK companies will see just how US businesses are addressing emerging market opportunities. The mission, which takes place 8-14 January 2011, is designed to ensure that the 20 businesses taking part benefit from the collective impact of a well-run trade mission.

The companies, already highly successful in the UK, will meet the media as well as peers from around the world, investors and potential partners. They will also engage with experts on the financial and public policy agendas relevant to healthcare technology businesses operating in the US.

The mission is delivered and supported by the Technology Strategy Board, UK Trade and Investment, Polecat, Silicon Valley Bank and McKinsey with other sponsors expected to announce their support soon. The goal of the mission is to help entrepreneurs in the UK's healthcare technology sector to take their businesses into the global marketplace.

Iain Gray, Chief Executive of the Technology Strategy Board, commented:
"Each of the successful 20 companies is a pioneer and we are working with them because we want to see these businesses find their place in what looks set to become a fast growing international market. We are pleased to be working alongside UKTI and other partners to support these growing businesses."

Matthew Durdy, CEO of Aqix Ltd whose company has developed a unique synthetic human interstitial fluid, commented:
"The Future Health Mission is a fantastic opportunity for Aqix to showcase our pioneering health technology in the US as well as exchange knowledge, expertise and contacts with our American counterparts. Over the past five years Aqix has grown into a thriving UK business and we're now looking forward to demonstrating our potential for commercial success on a global scale."