Medical device consultancy launches with Start Up Loan funding
A UK-based medtech regulatory consultancy supporting medical device innovators has launched with the backing of a five-figure Start Up Loan through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, delivered by GC Business Finance (GCBF).
Founded by Dr Benyamin Rahmani, MedStride supports medical device companies – from early-stage start-ups to university spinouts – in navigating the complex regulatory pathways required to bring new innovations safely to market.
Dr Rahmani launched the business after spending almost six years at the British Standards Institution (BSI), where he worked as a senior assessor reviewing applications for CE marking and market access across the UK and EU. During this time, he saw first-hand how even the most advanced medical technologies struggled to reach patients due to regulatory barriers.
Reflecting on his experience, Dr Rahmani said: “I was reviewing applications from some of the biggest global medical device manufacturers, and even they were struggling to get it right. For smaller start-ups, it was often overwhelming.
“The technology was there. The innovation was there. In many cases, these were devices that could genuinely save lives. But because of the complexity of regulation, companies simply couldn’t get them approved.”
Having previously worked in medical device R&D, including developing prosthetic heart valve technology, Dr Rahmani realised his unique experience across both innovation and regulation could help bridge this gap. He made the decision in 2025 to take the leap and launch MedStride. However, like many founders in highly specialised sectors, the early months presented uncertainty.
“The first few months are always the hardest. You’re setting everything up from scratch while trying to win clients at the same time,” he said. “The Start Up Loan helped me get through those early months of uncertainty and establish a credible presence from day one.”
The funding enabled investment in MedStride’s digital infrastructure and online presence – essential for a consultancy operating in a global, trust-led sector.
Since launching in November, the business has already secured a number of clients, with additional projects in the pipeline.
Beyond financial support, Dr Rahmani also benefited from mentorship provided through the programme. “I was matched with a mentor who had extensive financial experience, and those conversations were incredibly valuable. Getting feedback from someone who has seen how businesses grow and evolve was hugely beneficial.”
He also noted that securing the loan provided an additional layer of credibility when engaging with potential partners and investors.
“When you’re starting a business, trust is everything. The fact that MedStride had already gone through a formal funding process gave reassurance to people I spoke to. It signalled that the business had already been reviewed and validated in some way.”
Looking ahead, Dr Rahmani plans to grow MedStride’s client base, open a new London office and bring in associates over the next 12 months. He also hopes his experience will inspire others considering starting their own business.
“You can never be 100% sure when you start something new. But if you have the expertise and you know you’re providing real value, the only way to find out is to try.
“The UK offers a strong ecosystem for start-ups, and if you have a good idea and the right knowledge behind it, your chances of success are real.”
Alex Mearns, head of Start Up Lending at GC Business Finance, said: “Dr Rahmani’s journey highlights how specialist expertise can be transformed into a valuable business that supports innovation across the wider healthcare sector. MedStride is a great example of how early-stage funding can help founders establish credibility and bring high-impact services to market.
“It’s great to see Ali, the underwriter on this deal, do such an excellent job. We’re proud to have supported Benyamin at the start of his journey and look forward to seeing the business continue to grow.”