Healthcare Robotics Startup Catalyst

Scheduled from February through early June 2027, the initiative features a flexible virtual format to accommodate global participants across different time zones. The schedule includes two key Boston-based events: Healthcare in Robotics Week in mid-March and the Robotics Summit & Expo showcase from June 2 to 3, 2027. While presence at the June Summit is mandatory, joining both Boston gatherings is strongly encouraged.

February through June 2027.

Yes, the program welcomes global teams. Past cohorts have included participants from Spain, Australia, Greece, Korea, China, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and France.

No fees and no equity.

Early and growth stage. Seed through Series C are welcome if there is a clear robotics or automation component and a fit with near-term program goals.

The Healthcare Robotics Catalyst Program has a broad scope, encompassing surgical and interventional systems, lab and pharma automation, diagnostics and imaging workflows, hospital logistics, rehabilitation and assistive devices, and enabling technologies like sensing, precision motion, and medical device cybersecurity. Cohort selection prioritizes the potential for impactful mentorship, aligning the applicant’s needs with the mentor organization’s expertise.

The Healthcare Robotics Catalyst Program has a broad scope, encompassing surgical and interventional systems, lab and pharma automation, diagnostics and imaging workflows, hospital logistics, rehabilitation and assistive devices, and enabling technologies like sensing, precision motion, and medical device cybersecurity. Cohort selection prioritizes the potential for impactful mentorship, aligning the applicant’s needs with the mentor organization’s expertise.

Participating teams should plan for bi-weekly 45-60 minute mentor sessions. The exact time commitments are mutually agreed upon by the mentor and mentee, always with the goal of achieving their jointly defined objectives. It will depend on the mentee’s needs.

We match each startup with one or more mentors from our mentor organizations based on their needs. Additional support from the Medical Advisory Board and our experts ecosystem can be arranged by the Mentors depending on the mentee’s needs. You can indicate mentor preferences in the application. Matches are finalized during onboarding.

Practicing clinicians provide perspective on workflow, safety, study design, network and pilot readiness. They may join select sessions, office hours, or reviews. They are not a substitute for formal IRB or regulatory processes.

Pilots are not guaranteed. The program helps you define a credible plan, engage stakeholders, and pursue introductions where appropriate. We will support the need that you define with your mentor.

Your IP remains yours. We encourage you to share only what is necessary. NDAs can be arranged directly with mentors or other collaborators when needed.

A small cohort to enable depth of engagement. Exact size varies by year

Yes. While a main point of contact (founder or product lead recommended) will lead the program, additional team members are encouraged to participate in relevant sessions. The mentorship program is, in essence, customized, so other team members (e.g., technical, legal, clinical advisors) will likely need to engage in specific aspects.

No. The program is designed for remote participation across various time zones. While participation in the Robotics Summit & Expo showcase at the program’s conclusion is a valuable opportunity requiring in-person attendance in Boston, travel support may be provided based on individual circumstances.

We will also invite the cohort to participate in MassRobotics Demo Days and related activities at the midpoint of the program.

Company overview, problem and use case, robotics integration summary, TRL level, proof-of-concept readiness, preferred mentor alignment, and a short deck. A brief demo video is optional but helpful.

Applications open Sep 30, 2025, and close Dec 1, 2025. Evaluation and interviews run Dec 1 to Dec 15. The cohort is announced in early January.

Email: info@massrobotics.org