The American Heart Association, in collaboration with MedTech Innovator (MTI), has selected eight companies to participate in the 2026 Heart and Brain Health Accelerator, a specialty track within the MTI Accelerator program. The initiative aims to support early- and mid-stage medical technology startups developing novel solutions for cardiovascular and brain health, aligning with the Association's mission to improve patient outcomes and expand access to care.
The selected companies were chosen from a highly competitive global pool by an advisory committee of clinical, investment, and industry experts. Criteria included innovation, clinical impact, and potential to enhance patient care. The cohort includes Cerevia Neurosciences, which is developing a non-invasive neuromodulation platform for dementia; Chambertech, focusing on minimally invasive hybrid ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation; Envera Medical, creating a neurovascular balloon catheter for safer intracranial procedures; Eupnoos, offering acoustic breath biomarkers for early detection of heart failure and drug-induced lung injury; Flux Robotics, with magnetically guided systems for navigating complex arteries; Lucentia, using software to turn routine CT scans into virtual coronary CT angiography for early heart disease detection; OMINI, developing a portable platform for multiple blood biomarker monitoring in chronic diseases; and Prima Medical, providing real-time AI guidance for pulsed field catheter ablation.
Lisa Suennen, managing partner of American Heart Association Ventures, emphasized the importance of novel approaches: "Novel approaches to tackling today's most pressing challenges are what will drive us forward in addressing the age-old challenges of improving heart and brain health." She noted that the accelerator connects high-potential companies with expertise, resources, and networks to bring trustworthy and impactful products to patients and clinicians.
As part of the accelerator, companies receive specialized mentorship and coaching from American Heart Association Ventures, tailored to cardiovascular and brain health. They also become members of the MedTech Innovator program, gaining access to networking, funding opportunities, and increased visibility. Participants are eligible to compete in the MedTech Innovator Competition Finals at the MedTech Conference from October 18-21, 2026, in Boston. Additionally, they are included in the inaugural MTI Index, a recognition platform highlighting promising medtech companies.
This accelerator is part of broader efforts by American Heart Association Ventures and Studio Red to drive innovation in cardiovascular and neurological health. The initiative reflects a commitment to bridging the gap between research and real-world impact, ultimately aiming to save and improve lives affected by heart disease and stroke. For more information about the American Heart Association's venture programs, visit heart.org/ventures.
