Start-Up Challenge
2023 NIA Start-Up Challenge and Accelerator: Fostering Entrepreneurial Diversity
What is the Start-Up Challenge?
Through this Challenge, NIA is seeking researchers and entrepreneurs with a demonstrated need who have innovative ideas for science-driven technologies and products with the potential to increase the diversity of NIA-funded small business research and development. Submissions were accepted through the deadline of April 20, 2023.
Who can participate in the Start-Up Challenge?
This Challenge is best suited to entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas for a science-driven technology or product that aligns with the NIA small business research priorities. Entrepreneurs from groups underrepresented in health-related sciences are strongly encouraged to apply, however, participation is open to entrepreneurs from other groups. Review complete eligibility information.
How can I stay up-to-date on the Challenge?
This website will be updated as the Challenge progresses. Find out more about this year's finalists, or get details on the Challenge mentors.
Explore the Start-Up Challenge:
-
Learn about the 2022 Start-Up Challenge and Finalists
Watch this overview of the 2022 NIA Start-Up Challenge and Bootcamp to Foster Diversity and Accelerate Innovation.
Statutory Authority to Conduct the Challenge
The NIA is conducting this Challenge pursuant to authorities under the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science (COMPETES) Reauthorization Act of 2010, 15 U.S.C. 3719. In addition, this Challenge is consistent with the mission of the NIA, as described in 42 U.S.C. 285e, to conduct and support biomedical, social, and behavioral research, training, health information dissemination, and other programs with respect to the aging process and the diseases and other special problems and needs of the aged. This Challenge also aims to enhance equity in the NIA SBIR and STTR programs as a means to further the congressional goal of the SBIR and STTR programs under 15 U.S.C. 638 to foster and encourage participation by socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses, and by women-owned small businesses, in technological innovation.