Description

• Early to Mid-Stage: Primarily targets companies from Pre-seed to Series B.
• Funding Cap: Eligibility is generally limited to companies that have raised up to $10 million in equity funding, though exceptions may extend up to $25 million for certain Series B applicants. 
• Method: Founders apply through a centralized online application portal.
• Requirements: A complete submission typically includes a detailed company overview, business plan, and description of the transformative technology.
• Fee: There is no application fee and no fee for participation. 

Eligibility

• Sector: Includes Research Products & Instruments (kits, reagents, instruments), R&D and Manufacturing Services, and Molecular Diagnostics.
• Proof of Concept: Applicants should ideally have a prototype or some proof of concept and enough runway to execute milestones during the program.
• Vanguard Track: A specialized "Vanguard" track supports technologies for public health emergencies and medical countermeasures, often in partnership with BARDA. 

Process

1. Selection (March–May 2026): High-scoring applicants are invited to a "Road Tour" of virtual and in-person pitch events to meet industry judges and potential mentors.
2. Summit (June 2–4, 2026): Selected startups attend the Innovator Summit in Mountain View, CA, for networking and relationship-building.
3. Accelerator (June–October 2026): A four-month virtual program providing customized mentorship from corporate partners, workshops, and webinar-based educational curriculum.
4. Finals (November 2026): The cohort concludes with a Capstone Event where finalists compete for non-dilutive cash prizes. 

What an Applicant can Obtain

• Non-Dilutive Capital: Opportunities to win awards totaling up to $300,000 in cash prizes.
• Mentorship: Tailored guidance from senior industry leaders and corporate strategic partners.
• Visibility: High-profile exposure to global investors and potential strategic acquirers through capstone and partner events.