The MSU Research Foundation has announced that applications are now open for the second cohort of its Conquer Accelerator program for healthcare-related startups in Detroit. Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, the Conquer Detroit Accelerator continues to leverage the Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences partnership to support healthcare-related startups in the region.
“The response to our first Conquer Detroit Accelerator cohort was incredibly positive,” said Tom Stewart, Director of Venture Programming at the MSU Research Foundation. “The program is already driving healthcare innovation, with three companies piloting new initiatives alongside Henry Ford Innovations and testing their solutions in real-world clinical settings.”
The MSU Research Foundation is seeking applications from healthcare and health tech startups based in the Detroit area. Five startups will be selected for the 2025 cohort, which will commence on January 27, 2025. The program will offer a hybrid format, with the initial week taking place in Detroit to immerse participants in the city’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“Detroit’s position as a hub for healthcare innovation makes it an ideal location for the Conquer Accelerator,” said Lisa Prasad, Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at Henry Ford Innovations. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the MSU Research foundation to support the next generation of healthcare startups.”
The Conquer Detroit Accelerator provides comprehensive startup support, including mentorship from industry experts, access to essential resources, and the potential for investment through the MSU Research Foundation upon successful completion of the program.
“Advancing healthcare research while encouraging innovation and participation from the entrepreneurial community is a priority for the Henry Ford + MSU partnership,” said Norman Hubbard, partnership president. “The Conquer Detroit Accelerator is creating impactful opportunities for startups to engage with world-class researchers on the journey to discovery, fostering the growth of transformative healthcare solutions, while catalyzing economic development in Detroit.”
Applications for the 2025 Conquer Detroit Accelerator are open until November 22, 2024, and the program will commence on January 27, 2025. Interested startups can learn more and apply at msufoundation.org/conquer-accelerator