Plug and Play Lifetech's Inaugural Batch of Startups Set to Transform Healthcare in Indianapolis

Plug and Play Lifetech Announces Innovative Startups

In an exciting announcement made on October 20, 2025, Plug and Play unveiled the inaugural cohort of 12 startups selected for its Lifetech accelerator program in Indianapolis. This program stands out as Plug and Play's commitment to fostering innovation within the healthcare sector, addressing pressing challenges through cutting-edge technology and startup ingenuity.

The cohort showcases a diverse group drawn from eight states and three countries, emphasizing global talent and innovation. Over the next four months, these startups will engage with vital partners such as IU LAB, BioCrossroads, IU Health, and Indiana University to propel advancements in healthcare and life sciences forward. A culminating expo is slated for February 2026, where these startups will present their groundbreaking solutions to a diverse audience of executives, investors, and industry leaders.

David Rosenberg, President and CEO of IU LAB, expressed pride in partnering with Plug and Play, highlighting their shared commitment to enhancing Indiana's innovation economy. He emphasized the significance of transforming Indiana’s $1 billion research enterprise into practical applications while attracting top-tier talent. This partnership aims to fortify the state’s reputation as a leading hub for life sciences and innovation.

The Selected Startups

The startups joining this inaugural batch are pioneers in various aspects of life sciences, dedicating their capabilities to improving human health. Here’s a brief overview of these innovative companies:

1. AGED Diagnostics: This startup is developing the first accurate blood test tailored for fatty liver disease, which is prevalent in one in three Americans.
2. Amplicore: Amplicore is focused on creating new injectable therapeutics as revolutionary treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.
3. Amplified Sciences: They aim to change disease detection with a commercial test that utilizes their ultra-sensitive optical reporter platform for pancreatic cancer risk assessment.
4. Door Pharma: Targeting chronic hepatitis B, Door Pharma focuses on the viral nucleocapsid protein for innovative treatments.
5. Grannus Therapeutics: This company is working on a first-in-class therapeutic aimed at treating ovarian cancer.
6. Intero Biosystems: Intero is dedicated to developing mini organs from stem cells to better predict drug behavior during trials.
7. Modella AI: This startup leverages AI to enhance the speed of diagnosis and optimize treatment options for various diseases, notably cancer.
8. OmniSpirant Therapeutics: Based in Ireland, they are creating a unique RNA delivery platform named "OmniSomes," utilizing bioengineered stem cell-derived vesicles.
9. OsseoLabs: Focusing on AI-driven surgical planning, OsseoLabs develops customized 3D-printed implants to enhance patient outcomes.
10. OsteoCure Therapeutics: A spinout from Duke University, they are innovating an adenosine platform for fracture repair and osteoporosis treatment.
11. Scioto Biosciences: Their focus is on a groundbreaking gut-brain therapy designed to aid children with autism during early development.
12. Synch Neuro: They have created the world's first brain-based glucose monitor that operates non-invasively.

The Future of Medicine in Indianapolis

Brandon Noll, Director of Plug and Play Indiana, praised the inaugural batch of startups, calling them a reflection of the remarkable innovation in the life sciences sector. He highlighted Indianapolis's rich historical connection to the life sciences as an ideal setting for these entrepreneurs to thrive. Collaborating with experienced life science experts and leveraging a robust ecosystem of resources, these startups are positioned to shape the future of medicine significantly.

Instituted in September 2025, the IU LAB Lifetech Accelerator was launched through the collaborative efforts of Plug and Play, Indiana University, IU Health, and other regional partners, reinforcing Indiana's status as a beacon for life sciences innovation. The program offers startups critical support through mentorship, access to investors, and corporate collaborations, enabling breakthroughs in therapeutics, diagnostics, and biotechnology.

For more information about Plug and Play Lifetech and their various initiatives, you can visit their official website at Plug and Play Tech Center.