About this programme
The Trailblazer HealthTech Accelerator is run by JumpStart Inc., a Cleveland-based nonprofit, to prepare healthcare technology startups to raise venture capital. JumpStart covers the first $50,000 in professional services per company as non-dilutive support, taking no fees or equity.
Services span product development, technical consulting, legal, marketing, and growth strategy, delivered through a network of more than 200 vetted providers, plus access to subject matter experts, Entrepreneurs-in-Residence focused on healthcare commercialization and digital health, and business analysts.
The program has graduated more than 45 companies so far, including predictXbio, Apricity, Turning Mode, and Kilele Health.
How it works
The program runs as a 3-month intensive hybrid schedule, mixing virtual and in-person sessions, with weekly curriculum on Thursdays from 9am to 12pm ET. It includes in-person moments for kickoff, midpoint pitches, and a startup showcase. After the 3-month core program, founders get 2 more months of advisor mentorship.
Companies applying go through a pre-screening assessment, then an interview with JumpStart's evaluation team, and are scored against nine criteria including market need, team composition, and CEO coachability. Selection notifications go out 3 to 4 weeks after the application window closes.
Who can apply
The company must be based in Ohio, or willing to relocate, and building a venture-backable healthcare solution with a founding team that has complementary skills.
It needs a minimum viable product or equivalent progress, evidence of market validation, and a commitment to raise venture capital within 12 months.
How to apply
- Submit an application during the open window (the most recent cycle closed August 2, 2026 for a cohort running September 17 to December 10, 2026).
- Complete a pre-screening assessment.
- Interview with JumpStart's evaluation team, which scores applicants against nine criteria including market need, team composition, and CEO coachability.
- Receive a selection decision 3 to 4 weeks after the application window closes.
Frequently asked
Does JumpStart take equity or charge fees for this accelerator?
No. It is explicitly no fees, no ownership stakes, with JumpStart covering the first $50,000 in professional services per company.
Do I have to be based in Ohio to apply?
You need to be based in Ohio or willing to relocate there.
What stage should my startup be at?
You should have a minimum viable product or equivalent progress, evidence of market validation, and be planning to raise venture capital within 12 months.
How long does the program run?
3 months of intensive hybrid programming, with weekly Thursday sessions, followed by 2 more months of advisor mentorship.
How are applicants evaluated?
Through a pre-screening assessment, then an interview with the evaluation team, scored on nine criteria including market need, team composition, and CEO coachability, with decisions 3 to 4 weeks after the window closes.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.