Startup Ecosystem

Empowering Healthcare Innovation: DLabs Launches Third Cohort of I-HEAL @ ISB in Partnership with CitiusTech


India’s healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, yet challenges in accessibility, affordability, and last-mile delivery persist. Bridging these gaps requires innovative solutions, and that’s where I-HEAL @ ISB (Healthcare Entrepreneurship and Acceleration Lab) steps in. Now in its third cohort, I-HEAL @ ISB, launched by DLabs in collaboration with CitiusTech, is dedicated to empowering startups that aim to transform healthcare access for millions across India.

I-HEAL @ ISB is designed specifically for early-stage healthcare startups with a tested prototype and a drive to scale. This program isn’t just another accelerator—it’s a comprehensive support system that brings together mentorship, funding, clinical validation, regulatory guidance, and market access to nurture game-changing healthcare innovations. For startups striving to make healthcare accessible to underserved communities, I-HEAL @ ISB offers a fast track to development, market entry, and impact.

Why I-HEAL @ ISB? The Unique Value of a Healthcare-Focused Accelerator

The I-HEAL @ ISB accelerator stands out by offering customized support through the entire journey of healthcare product development. From initial stages of product refinement to clinical validation and regulatory advisory, I-HEAL @ ISB’s approach is tailored to the unique needs of healthcare startups. With access to domain experts, investor networks, and strategic partnerships, startups can overcome typical roadblocks, like complex compliance and market access challenges, and advance toward scalable impact.

I-HEAL @ ISB also recognizes that healthcare innovations often require more resources and longer development cycles than typical tech startups. The program is structured to provide deep need-based mentorship and hands-on support, including product engineering, clinical trials, and business development, ensuring that startups don’t just reach the market—they thrive there.

A Powerhouse of Partnerships

A core strength of I-HEAL @ ISB is its network of Accelerator and Hospital Partners—a powerhouse alliance of renowned healthcare organizations. The Max Institute of Healthcare Management at ISB, CMC Vellore, KIMS Hospital, Mazumdar Shaw Medical Foundation – TBI, GIMS Startup, Yenepoya Technology Incubator, Dr. Moopen’s Medical College, AIC CCMB, and TECHPAD come together in this initiative to provide startups with insights, mentorship, and validation opportunities directly from industry leaders. These partnerships ensure that startups have access to real-world testing and expert advice as they navigate the complexities of the healthcare ecosystem.

Adding to this, Investor Partners such as IAN, 360 One, Inflection Point Ventures, W Health Ventures, Huddle Ventures, Lead Angels, July Ventures, Enzia Ventures, Menterra, Ankur Capital, 3i Partners, Arali Ventures, Beyond Next Ventures, and Prime Venture Partners bring essential capital and strategic guidance to I-HEAL @ ISB. With investors dedicated to healthcare and tech innovations, the program enables startups to secure funding and scale without barriers.

Who Should Apply? Eligibility and Focus Sectors

I-HEAL @ ISB is open to startups that are:

Registered as a Private Limited (Pvt Ltd) entity in India

Operating at Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage or above, with a Technology Readiness Level of 5 or higher

Focused on creating substantial commercial and social impact

The accelerator is actively seeking innovations across critical healthcare sectors, including Digital Health, Women & Child Healthcare, Disease Diagnostics, Healthcare Management & Infrastructure, and solutions for the Geriatric Population.

What I-HEAL @ ISB Offers

Once selected, startups gain access to an array of resources aimed at accelerating their journey from prototype to impactful solutions. Here’s a quick look at what’s included:

Personalized Mentorship: Guidance tailored to each startup’s unique needs and challenges

Product Development & Refinement Support: Hands-on help with perfecting and scaling solutions

Regulatory and Clinical Validation Assistance: Support navigating compliance and validating solutions in clinical settings

Market Access and Business Development Guidance: Go-to-market strategies and support in scaling up

Strategic Partnerships and Networking: Opportunities to connect with industry leaders, hospital partners, and investors

Fundraising and Pilot Launch Assistance: Resources to secure funding and pilot solutions in real-world settings

Internationalization Support: For startups aiming to expand beyond India

Ready to Transform Healthcare? Join I-HEAL @ ISB

If your startup is ready to change the future of healthcare and deliver impact where it’s needed most, I-HEAL @ ISB is the platform to get you there. This accelerator program provides not only the resources to scale your idea but also the community, partnerships, and real-world insights crucial in healthcare innovation.

Applications are open until November 15, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative journey. Visit to apply and learn more about how I-HEAL @ ISB is helping reshape healthcare in India.

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