FAQ on Startups Driving Technology-Driven Improvements in Women's Heart and Brain Health

What is the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator?

The Heart and Brain Health Accelerator is a program by the American Heart Association designed to support companies with novel medical or digital health technologies that can improve women’s cardiovascular and brain health outcomes.

Why is the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator important?

It’s important because it drives innovation to enhance patient outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and reduce barriers to care, focusing on scalable and effective technology solutions for better health.

How does the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator work?

The program connects selected startups to mentorship, funding, and a network of experts to accelerate the development of their technologies from concept to impactful, lifesaving solutions.

Who is involved in the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator?

The program is a collaboration between American Heart Association Ventures and the Association’s Center for Health Technology and Innovation, involving eight selected health technology startups.

When was the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator announced?

The announcement was made on July 22, 2025, detailing the selection of eight companies to participate in the program.

Where is the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator applicable?

The program is applicable globally, aiming to ensure that everyone, everywhere can benefit from longer, healthier lives through innovative health technologies.

What are the benefits of the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator?

Benefits include the potential to transform care for heart disease and stroke, improve women’s health outcomes, and make diagnostics and treatments more accessible and affordable.

Who can I contact for more information about the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator?

For more information, you can visit the American Heart Association’s website or contact American Heart Association Ventures directly.

What technologies are the selected startups developing?

The startups are developing technologies like mobile thermal imaging and AI for vascular diseases, contactless biometric devices for heart conditions, rapid blood tests for preeclampsia, AI for ECG interpretation, and devices for stroke recovery and Alzheimer’s therapy, among others.

How does the Heart and Brain Health Accelerator compare to other health technology programs?

This accelerator is unique in its focus on women’s heart and brain health, leveraging the American Heart Association’s expertise and network to support technologies that are scalable, accessible, and effective in improving health outcomes.