In a significant move to enhance women’s cardiovascular and brain health, the American Heart Association (AHA) has announced the selection of eight pioneering companies for its Heart and Brain Health Accelerator. This initiative, a collaboration between American Heart Association Ventures™ and the Association’s Center for Health Technology and Innovation, aims to drive forward-thinking solutions in health technology.
The Accelerator is part of the AHA’s broader mission to improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and eliminate barriers to care through innovative technology. Lisa Suennen, managing partner of American Heart Association Ventures, emphasized the importance of innovation in healthcare, stating,
“Innovation is essential to advancing health and improving outcomes for people affected by heart disease and stroke.”
Driving Innovation in Health Technology
The Heart and Brain Health Accelerator is a specialized track within the MedTech Innovator Accelerator Program. It focuses on identifying and supporting companies with novel medical or digital health technologies that align with the AHA’s lifesaving mission. The selected companies offer solutions that could significantly impact women’s cardiovascular and brain health outcomes.
Meet the Innovators
- Kelvin Health: Utilizes mobile thermal imaging and artificial intelligence (AI) for non-invasive diagnostics of vascular diseases.
- LightHearted AI Health: Provides a contactless biometric device using laser light and AI for heart condition detection.
- MOMM Diagnostics: Develops a rapid blood test for early detection of preeclampsia in pregnancy.
- Powerful Medical: Uses AI to help doctors interpret electrocardiograms (ECGs) quickly and accurately.
- Reach Neuro: Created an implantable device to aid stroke survivors in regaining motor control.
- Sinaptica Therapeutics: Offers non-invasive brain stimulation therapy for Alzheimer’s disease.
- SynchNeuro: Develops a wearable device for monitoring blood sugar levels using brain signals.
- Veravas: Uses a patented platform to purify biomarkers for early disease detection.
Supporting Growth and Development
These companies now join the MedTech Innovator program, gaining access to networking opportunities, funding, and increased visibility within the medical technology industry. They will also receive specialized mentorship and coaching from American Heart Association Ventures, tailored to their focus on cardiovascular and brain conditions.
Participants in the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator are eligible to compete in the MedTech Innovator Competition Finals, scheduled for October 5-8, 2025, in San Diego. The program is sponsored by Astellas Rx+ and represents a significant opportunity for these startups to showcase their innovations on a global stage.
Expert Selection and Guidance
The selection of these companies was overseen by a committee of expert volunteers, including renowned cardiologists and health professionals. Members of the advisory committee include:
- Mitchell Elkind, M.D., M.S., FAHA, Chief Clinical Science Officer and past volunteer president of the AHA
- Alexander Blood, M.D., M.Sc., FACC, Cardiologist at Mass General Brigham
- Jessie Golbus, M.D., Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan
- Lisa Suennen, Managing Partner of American Heart Association Ventures
- Chris Baker, M.D., Clinical Partner of Cardeation Capital
- Jake Martellaro, Partner of Cardeation Capital
- Evelina Grayverm, M.D., Assistant Professor and Cardiologist at the Zucker School of Medicine
- Shireen Khoury, M.D., M.P.H., Cardiologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Seth Martin, M.D., Cardiologist and Professor at Johns Hopkins Medicine
The initiative underscores the AHA’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to tackle some of the most pressing health challenges. By fostering innovation, the Association aims to create scalable, accessible, and effective solutions that ensure longer, healthier lives for people worldwide.
As these startups progress through the Accelerator, their advancements could pave the way for transformative changes in how heart and brain health are managed, particularly for women. The potential impact of these technologies extends beyond healthcare, promising to reshape the landscape of medical innovation.
