#United States #Irvine #University Lab Partners #MedTech Innovation #I-CREATE

University Lab Partners Unveils I-CREATE Winners

In a significant event for the medical technology sector, University Lab Partners (ULP) has officially announced the winners of the inaugural I-CREATE Showcase. Nine pioneering MedTech startups presented their cutting-edge innovations before a distinguished panel of investors, public health leaders, and industry experts, all eager to discover the next big idea in healthcare.

The top three companies that stood out during the Showcase were awarded substantial cash prizes that reflect their impressive contributions:

• - Acorn Genetics secured the grand prize of $50,000
• - Latde Diagnostics followed with a $30,000 prize
• - Mitos Diagnostics rounded out the winners with $20,000

These startups presented compelling solutions that aim to enhance health security and tackle pressing issues in medical diagnostics and device development. Anna Cornell, the CEO of Acorn Genetics, expressed gratitude for the support provided by ULP, stating, “Participating in the I-CREATE accelerator pushed our team to refine our strategy and accelerate our progress in a way we couldn't have done alone.” This sentiment was echoed by others who participated, highlighting the invaluable experience and opportunity for network expansion.

In addition to the cash prizes, all startups in the I-CREATE program benefited from a comprehensive six-month accelerator initiative. This included tailored workshops, expert consulting, advisory services, and mentorship aimed at propelling these young companies toward success. Other participating companies like Checktor Biosciences, VIDEM, and Hikari Medical Technology were also recognized with $5,000 in in-kind consulting services to further their development.

The I-CREATE initiative, which stands for the International Consortium for Research, Engineering, Acceleration of Technology Excellence, operates under the BARDA Accelerator Network. It is delivered in collaboration with respected entities like CIMIT and Science Exchange, signaling a robust commitment to fostering innovation in medical devices and diagnostics.

Dr. Stephanie Chan, Program Officer for I-CREATE at ULP, praised the level of creativity and innovation exhibited by the cohort, stating, “The caliber of innovation from this inaugural cohort has been truly inspiring. These entrepreneurs are helping shape the future of global health security, and we're honored to support their journey.”

Opening Applications for the Next Cohort

As ULP celebrates the accomplishments of its first I-CREATE cohort, it is also launching applications for the next round of participants. The upcoming cohort offers:

• - Up to $200,000 in non-dilutive funding for outstanding applicants
• - Tailored mentorship, invaluable technical consulting, and engagement opportunities with investors
• - A chance to compete for a $50,000 grand prize

Startups focusing on medical devices and diagnostic technologies that address high-priority public health concerns are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until August 2025. For more details and application information, interested parties can visit ULP’s official site.

The I-CREATE initiative is wholly or partially supported by federal funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and BARDA under agreement number 75A50124C00007.

About I-CREATE and University Lab Partners

I-CREATE is dedicated to fostering groundbreaking advancements in the medical device and diagnostics sectors by providing a vital connection between startups and a vast network of industry leaders, investors, and seasoned mentors. This program empowers entrepreneurs to tackle the challenges of development and commercialization, ensuring that transformative medical solutions can reach the market effectively.

University Lab Partners is a prominent nonprofit wet lab incubator located in Orange County, CA, boasting state-of-the-art facilities in both Irvine and Aliso Viejo. ULP is committed to cultivating an entrepreneurial community focused on life sciences, enhancing innovation within the ecosystem through various accelerator programs and development initiatives. To learn more, visit University Lab Partners.