Improving women’s health education, changing the way we treat concussions, and enhancing operating theatre set up are just a few of the issues to be addressed by the Startups and Scaleups accepted into the second cohort of HCF Catalyst, the country’s first corporate-supported health-tech accelerator.
HCF, Australia’s leading not-for-profit health fund and corporate Startup accelerator Slingshot have selected seven startups and five scaleups from more than 200 applicants and 45 Pitch Day finalists.
The 12-week structured program is designed to help the founders develop compelling business models and secure the traction, viability and investment needed to succeed.
Sheena Jack, Chief Strategy Officer at HCF said, “We are thrilled to be building upon the solid foundation laid by last year’s inaugural cohort.”
“HCF Catalyst is all about finding and nurturing the most innovative ideas in health-tech, with the aim of making health care more affordable, understandable and effective for all Australians. The diversity of this year’s cohort will enable participants to learn from each other and use their industry and entrepreneurial expertise to drive the next wave of health innovation.”
Who is entering HCF Catalyst?
Accepted startups and scaleups include:
Startups
BioConnected – Bio-sensing wireless earphones and health and fitness mobile software
eText – A collaborative platform for doctors to manage patient data and workflow
Headsafe – A diagnostic and therapeutic monitoring system for concussion injuries
Mova – Smartphone sensor technology to improve the physiotherapy experience for patients
The Pelvic Expert – Revolutionizing women’s health for pelvic pain, preconception, and pregnancy
Perx Health– A rewards platform which motivates people to engage with their health daily
Scrub IT – A software application for hospital operating suites that assists with and manages the theatre setup process
Scaleups
ABC Dental– Provides a range of dental services with a focus on technology and innovation in Tier 1 shopping centre locations.
Episoft – A chronic disease management system and online portal to process demographic and health history data in advance of admission to hospital
Medipass – Automates health services quotation, health fund claiming and gap payment processing by connecting individuals to medical practitioners and practitioners to health funds
TechFit Group – White-labelled technology to offer meal and exercise planning and support across various demographics
The Birthing Institute – Scientifically verified antenatal education program, She Births
Slingshot CEO Karen Lawson says the strength and diversity of this year’s cohort will be instrumental in developing a more successful program overall.
“Diverse perspectives and experiences are imperative if we want to transform healthcare. In an environment when many Startups fail, tapping into diversity, not just gender but background thinking will deliver more well-rounded businesses and make the Australian Startup ecosystem stronger. The cohort will have access to HCF and Slingshot mentors and partners to take the collaboration even further,” added Lawson.
The Startups involved in the first HCF Catalyst program secured $2.25 million in funding, including Curo Technologies which received $1 million investment from HCF.
The program has been updated to offer Startups more flexible investment terms. Startups can receive up to $50,000 from the Slingshot Investment Fund for equity in the business as well as training and resources, support team of mentors and access to co-working space.
