The Innovation Center is thrilled to host our annual ELEVATE HEALTH TECH CHALLENGE, an exciting opportunity for startups to soar to success.

This challenge is meticulously crafted to empower Health Tech Startups, guiding them to elevate their Investment and Technology Readiness Levels (I/TRL). Throughout this journey, participants will have the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with seasoned subject matter experts. Together, you’ll strategize and pave the way for your startup’s growth!

Startups will compete for $20,000 in total prizes and the opportunity to gain visibility among potential investors and partners.

Elevate is open to U.S.‑registered health‑tech startups headquartered in the Borderplex region with at least three team members. Companies should be targeting at least TRL 3 and IRL 2 by the end of the initial assessment. Making this explicit will deter ineligible applicants and streamline screening.

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a nine‑point scale that gauges the maturity of a technology.

TRL 1–3 represents basic research and proof‑of‑concept.

TRL 4–6 covers prototype development and testing.

TRL 7–9 refers to system demonstration and a commercially ready product.

Elevate expects startups to be at least TRL 3 (validated concept) and aims to help them progress toward higher levels.

Investment Readiness Level (IRL) measures how prepared a company is for investment.

Early IRL stages (1–2) indicate an idea or prototype with little traction.

Mid‑levels (3–4) reflect early customer validation and a clear business model.

Higher levels (5–6) indicate revenue traction, market fit and readiness for institutional funding.

Elevate looks for companies at or near IRL 2 and works to move them toward investor‑ready status.

Apply today to the ELEVATE HEALTH TECH CHALLENGE!