Live pitch presentations from 11 pioneering med tech startups developing breakthroughs in medical device, diagnostics, and digital health
University Lab Partners (ULP), in partnership with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), today announced that applications are now open for the I-CREATE program and accelerator. Together, these programs will provide innovators with non-dilutive funding ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, hands-on mentorship, and the opportunity to win a $50,000 cash prize. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2025.
Accelerating Breakthroughs in Health Security
The I-CREATE (International Consortium for Research, Engineering, Acceleration of Technology Excellence) initiative is BARDA's Medical Devices & Diagnostics Hub, created to advance life-saving health security solutions.
Through these two tracks under the I-CREATE program, ULP will select a cohort of startups and university innovators developing transformative diagnostics and medical devices that address pressing challenges in pandemic preparedness, infectious disease detection, and health equity.
Through these two tracks under the I-CREATE program, ULP will select a cohort of startups and university innovators developing transformative diagnostics and medical devices that address pressing challenges in pandemic preparedness, infectious disease detection, and health equity.
Areas of interest include:
- High-sensitivity, cost-effective molecular diagnostics, including at-home and point-of-care solutions
- Novel detection methods such as breath analysis and pathogen-agnostic platforms
- Deployable diagnostics designed for underserved and rural communities
- Proof-of-concept validation for breakthrough health security technologies
Program Opportunities
I-CREATE Accelerator (12-week virtual program):
- Cohort: Ten teams selected
- Program Features: Weekly curriculum for 12 weeks with education and presentation on topics in business development, competitive analysis, market research, go-to-market strategy, fundraising and much more.
- Virtual Showcase: Culminates in a high-profile pitch event with investors and federal agencies
- Prize: A grand prize of $50,000 cash awarded to the winning team
I-CREATE Non-Dilutive Funding (6 months):
- Up to $200K for a 6-month proposal to explore how your innovation can address public health emergencies.
- Milestone-based funding covering labor, supplies, reagents, and related expenses
- Ongoing opportunities to engage in BARDA activities for partnerships, collaborations, and additional funding pathways
- Six-month of mentorship with dedicated lead mentor, plus continuous access to a network of expert mentors and advisors
Leadership Perspective
"Through I-CREATE, we're combining funding, mentorship, and access to strategic networks to accelerate the next generation of diagnostic platforms for innovations to combat public health emergencies," said Stephanie Chan, Director of Innovation Programs at University Lab Partners. "This year's Accelerator program and funding will provide a unique opportunity for national and global innovators to transform breakthrough ideas into deployable solutions that advance health security for all."
📰 Read the official press release here.
About I-CREATE
I-CREATE fosters groundbreaking innovation in the medical device and diagnostics sectors by serving as a bridge between startups and a network of investors, industry leaders, and experienced mentors. Through this collaboration, the program empowers entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of development and commercialization, driving the advancement of transformative medical countermeasures that address critical health challenges and improve lives globally.
About University Lab Partners
University Lab Partners (ULP) is a premier nonprofit wet lab incubator located in Orange County, CA, with facilities in Irvine and Aliso Viejo. ULP provides state-of-the-art wet lab spaces and fosters a vibrant entrepreneurial community focused on life sciences. In addition to offering highly equipped facilities and peer-to-peer collaboration opportunities, ULP runs global accelerator programs and workforce development initiatives, empowering innovators and advancing the life sciences ecosystem worldwide. www.universitylabpartners.org
