JumpStart service expansion includes new HealthTech accelerator

JumpStart, northeast Ohio’s venture development organization, is introducing new support services for entrepreneurs, including new accelerators for software and HealthTech startups.

JumpStart says new federal funding, tailored programming, and an expanded network of subject matter experts made it possible to expand on existing offerings.

"Ohio's proximity to renowned hospital systems and research institutions helps position our state as a hub for healthcare innovation and commercialization," said Kaleigh Gallagher, VP of Tech Services and Network Management at JumpStart. "We continue to develop new strategies to help early-stage healthcare startups access the expertise, funding, and technical services they need to scale right here in Ohio." 

How the accelerator works

Following a successful pilot in 2023, JumpStart is launching its first cohort of the Trailblazer HealthTech Accelerator, a free program to help pre-seed and seed-stage healthcare innovators prepare for startup capital and commercialization through one-on-one advising, access to experts, and up to $125,000 in non-dilutive funding. The three-month accelerator provides a deep dive into regulatory, clinical, reimbursement, and commercialization strategies.

The new accelerators are partially funded through a $2 million grant from the US Economic Development Administration’s "Build to Scale" program. The grant funding has been partially matched through partnerships with Case Western Reserve University, UH Ventures, and others. 

What it means for Ohio

JumpStart’s new HealthTech accelerator builds on Ohio’s momentum in the space.

A few recent Ohio HealthTech headlines:

• Columbus-based Redi Health raises $14 million for digital pharma support

• Amgen opened its “most technologically advanced” facility in Ohio

• Enable Injections is expanding manufacturing operations with a new facility in the Cincinnati suburb of Springdale

• Case Western Reserve spinoff AlensiaXR raised $3 million to accelerate development of its 3D holograms for medical students

• Ohio State Spinoff Basking Biosciences raises $55 million to test stroke treatment

• Cleveland’s SPR Therapeutics raises $85M for non-opioid pain treatment option

• Cleveland Diagnostics secures $75 million funding to advance early-stage cancer detection

• Clarametyx Biosciences, a Columbus-based BioTech, raised a $33 million Series A

• Cleveland Clinic and Canon joined forces to create an imaging research center

• Augment Therapy, Cleveland-based HealthTech startup, raised a $2.7 million seed plus round

• University Hospitals launched the Haslam Sports Innovation Center in Cleveland with a $20 million donation

• Forge Biologics, a Columbus startup, announced $620 million acquisition

For more information, visit jumpstartinc.org.