#United States #Cambridge #LabCentral #C10 Labs #AI BioHub

Launch of the Second AI BioHub Accelerator Cohort

LabCentral, collaborating with C10 Labs, has recently announced the commencement of applications for the Spring 2026 cohort of the AI BioHub Accelerator program. This initiative aims to support early-stage TechBio startups that operate at the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence and life sciences. Set to begin on March 19, 2026, this accelerator program will span ten weeks, concluding in early June.

Program Overview

The AI BioHub Accelerator is designed to offer an immersive learning experience for participants, providing extensive support in AI and biotechnology. Throughout the program, startups will engage in a robust curriculum tailored to the unique challenges of the TechBio industry. Notably, they will gain access to a combination of wet lab and office space, expert mentorship in AI applications, and a strong network of industry advisors. The applications will remain open until March 9, 2026.

This is the second cohort made possible by a notable $1.9 million Sector Spark Grant awarded to LabCentral by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. This funding has allowed LabCentral to enhance its facilities, creating a dedicated AI BioHub lab equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory technologies and offering two rounds of accelerator programming for emerging TechBio startups.

Insights from Leadership

Maggie O'Toole, the President and CEO of LabCentral, expressed her enthusiasm about the advancements made possible by AI technologies. She highlighted that accelerating the delivery of new therapies to patients is one of AI’s most significant contributions to the healthcare sector. This grant reflects Massachusetts' commitment to empowering early-stage entrepreneurs who harness AI for life sciences, establishing the state as a leader in this transformative space.

C10 Labs’ Managing Partner, Shahid Azim, shared insights from the first cohort, emphasizing the profound impact that AI will have on the next wave of groundbreaking companies in life sciences. He noted that the AI BioHub Accelerator is pivotal in guiding scientists and technical founders to effectively apply advanced AI methodologies to real-world problems while achieving commercial success.

Selection Criteria and Ideal Candidates

The focus for the Spring 2026 cohort is on nurturing startups that enhance human health through AI-enabled biological research. Ideal applicants are early-stage companies with an innovative project, whether they have a proof-of-concept, prototype, or scientific validation. Importantly, at least one team member must be present at in-person sessions in Cambridge, MA, once a week.

Founders aiming to refine their venture strategies and develop their AI capabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The more ambitious the project, the more it aligns with the accelerator's vision.

Information Sessions for Interested Applicants

To facilitate the application process, LabCentral and C10 Labs are hosting several information sessions, both online and in-person:

• - AI BioHub Preview on February 12, 2026: This in-person event will feature successful participants from previous cohorts and provide an opportunity for prospective applicants to tour the AI BioHub lab.
• - Online Previews: Scheduled for February 9, February 23, and March 9, 2026, these sessions will offer detailed overviews of the program and will allow attendees to ask questions and learn more about the application process.

Success of the First Cohort

The inaugural AI BioHub Accelerator cohort proved to be highly successful, attracting 15 teams and facilitating significant investment outcomes. Participants collectively raised over $8 million, showcasing the effectiveness of the accelerator in supporting innovation in the life sciences. Moreover, six teams received 'Golden Tickets' which provide residency at LabCentral, each worth $50,000. The collaborations that emerged from this cohort further enriched the ecosystem, demonstrating the value of such initiatives.

About C10 Labs and LabCentral

C10 Labs, positioned in Cambridge, is dedicated to reshaping the AI startup landscape by collaborating closely with entrepreneurs to bring visionary projects to fruition. Their mission emphasizes practical applications of AI technologies.

LabCentral serves as a launchpad for emerging life sciences startups, offering extensive resources and support within its facilities in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 2013, LabCentral has already enabled its resident startups to raise more than $20 billion in funding, further underscoring its significant role in fostering innovation. Detailed information about the accelerator and the application process can be found at www.labcentral.org.