The Western Massachusetts Health Technology Challenge will accelerate up to eight early-stage companies operating in Berkshire Franklin, Hampden or Hampshire Counties. Finalists will participate in acceleration workshops, work with expert mentors, and pitch their concepts at a final pitch event on March 3, 2023. Expert judges will award a $50,000 Innovation Grant to the top team, and a $25,000 Innovation Grant to the runner-up.
The challenge is funded in part by the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, an economic development investment agency dedicated to supporting the growth and development of the life sciences in Massachusetts.
Western Mass Health Technology Challenge Finalists:
Quaesar Therapeutics - Anujan Ramesh
Quaesar Therapeutics has developed a non-invasive blood-based diagnostic test that can detect the incidence and spread of ovarian cancer significantly earlier compared to clinical standards.
Latde Diagnostics - Emily Melzer
Latde Diagnostics is developing a rapid, low-cost, test to determine antibiotic susceptibility for bloodborne pathogens.
To Be Named - Govind Srimathveeralli
Srimathveerali’s team has technology to generate on-demand liquid biopsy samples to support rapid diagnosis.
Brainify - Anant Shinde
Brainify is developing a noninvasive brain stimulation device to improve neurological disability and dysfunction.
MacFarlane Medical - Connor MacFarlane
MacFarlane Medical’s Improved Insulin Delivery (IID) port is easy to use, discrete, waterproof, and most importantly, convenient and reliable, giving diabetic patients increased comfort and freedom
Institute for Applied Life Sciences - University of Massachusetts Amherst | Life Science Laboratories, 240 Thatcher Rd, Amherst, MA 01003
WINNER RESOURCES
The Berkshire Innovation Center (Pittsfield) is offering a one-year full membership at the BIC at no charge to the winner of the challenge ($2500 value for startups). Members get access to BIC equipment and facilities at heavily discounted prices.BIC Equipment List >
FINALIST RESOURCES
The Institute for Applied Life Sciences (UMass Amherst) also has these facilities available for finalists.Learn more >
LAB RENTAL OPTIONS
The Institute for Advanced Life Sciences also has other rental options.Learn more >