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Frequently asked questions

MedTech Actuator Origin (Singapore)

  • What is MedTech Actuator?
    • MedTech Actuator is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that curates an ecosystem of MedTech, HealthTech and BioTech innovation and investment operating programs across Australia and Asia-Pacific. 

      The MedTech Actuator was founded in 2018 by serial MedTech entrepreneurs and health policy experts who understood that MedTech, HealthTech and BioTech ventures require a bespoke acceleration model.

      We connect the region’s broad ecosystem to empower founders to build the next wave of global MedTech, HealthTech and BioTech success stories.

      MedTech Actuator programs are aimed at startups at different stages – from idea to growth. Programs include MedTech Actuator Origin, MedTech Actuator Accelerator, and MedTech Actuator Global Navigator.

  • Why should I apply for Origin?
    • MedTech Actuator Origin is a fantastic opportunity for early-stage entrepreneurs and innovators to learn and engage with the startup ecosystem, whilst also providing teams with a chance to pitch their ideas. The winner of MedTech Actuator Origin will receive a cash and in-kind prize pack and fast-tracked entry into MedTech Actuator Accelerator 2025.

      If you’re a MedTech, BioTech or HealthTech project looking to transform into a startup, MedTech Actuator Origin will show you the ropes and provide you with a pathway forward. If you’re lucky and have the ability to pitch the house down, then you might even score some equity-free cash while you’re at it. 

      Through intensive learning alongside a cohort of founders and innovators, you’ll be exposed to the ecosystem, industry leaders and so much more before you pitch in multiple rounds to score a place at the Origin finals at the MedTech Actuator Showcase. 

      Topics covered include idea validation, pitching, professional development, structuring your company, tax and legal considerations, navigating Singapore’s healthcare ecosystem, and funding for early-stage ventures.

  • What are the key activities of Origin?
    • Over the months of April to June, participants will take part in the following activities:

      • Pitch Bootcamp  – April 15 & 16 

      Come together for a two-day bootcamp, where you’ll be introduced to topics to elevate your pitch, interact with local founders and mentors, and learn to build your dream team.

      • Venture Bootcamp – May 13 & 14

      Get through the semifinal to join the next 2-day bootcamp, where you’ll learn about idea validation, professional development, structuring your company, tax and legal considerations, navigating Singapore’s healthcare ecosystem, and funding for early-stage ventures. 

      • Semi-final – May 15

      Alongside other Origin Semi-finalists, you’ll pitch your innovation in front of selected MedTech Actuator ecosystem stakeholders for a place in the Origin Final in June at the MedTech Actuator Showcase. 

      • MedTech Actuator Showcase and Origin Final – June 10

      Join MedTech Actuator and the ecosystem for a formal gala to celebrate innovation in healthcare! Origin Finalists will pitch for three mins to the audience with the Origin Winner announced in the evening.

  • What are the time commitments of Origin?
    • Attendance at the following events is expected of one representative per team:

      • Pitch Bootcamp – April 15-16, from 10am – 5pm each day
      • Venture Bootcamp – May 13-14, from 10am – 5pm each day
      • Origin Semi-final – May 15, from 4 – 6:30pm
      • MedTech Actuator Showcase and Origin Final – June 10, from 6 – 10pm

      *Timings might be subject to change at a later date.

  • What are the eligibility criteria for Origin?
    • Applicants to MedTech Actuator Origin must:

      • Have a research project/idea/innovation in human health that is not at a stage later than proof of concept;
      • Be able to attend all program activities (in-person and online) scheduled; 
      • Have at least one founder who is a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident.

      At MedTech Actuator, we’re for innovators. This means creating opportunities for innovators from all corners of the system, and from multiple backgrounds and contexts.  MedTech Actuator encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Please reach out to the team if you have any questions about your eligibility.

  • I am currently studying/working/between degrees. Can I still apply for Origin?
    • Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria listed above, we encourage you to apply!

      If you have any questions about your eligibility, please reach out to Evon Liu – at evon@medtechactuator.com.

  • I live/work/study overseas, can I still apply for Origin?
    • To be eligible for Origin, at least one team member must be based in Singapore.

      If you are currently overseas, e.g. for work or study but fit within the eligibility above and a team member can attend the in-person components of the program in Singapore then, yes, we would encourage you to apply.

      If you have any questions about your eligibility, please reach out to Evon Liu – evon@medtechactuator.com.

  • What are the application questions?
    • The application consists of around 15 questions, and will take about 5-8 minutes to complete. We recommend that you complete the application from a computer.

      You may view the application questions here.

  • When will I know if my application has been successful?
    • Applications close on March 21 and successful candidates will be notified by Close-of-Business (COB) on April 2.

  • What are the prizes for Origin and how can I use or spend them?
    • The winner of MedTech Actuator Origin 2025 will receive cash and in-kind prize pack worth to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. An added bonus is the fast-tracked entry into MedTech Actuator Accelerator 2025!

  • I still have questions about Origin. Can I speak to someone?
  • How do I apply for Origin?

MedTech Actuator Origin (Japan)

  • What is MedTech Actuator?
    • MedTech Actuator is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that curates an ecosystem of MedTech, HealthTech and BioTech innovation and investment operating programs across Australia and Asia-Pacific.

      The MedTech Actuator was founded in 2018 by serial MedTech entrepreneurs and health policy experts who understood that MedTech, HealthTech and BioTech ventures require a bespoke acceleration model.

      We connect the region’s broad ecosystem to empower founders to build the next wave of global MedTech, HealthTech and BioTech success stories.

      MedTech Actuator programs are aimed at startups at different stages – from idea to growth. Programs include MedTech Actuator Origin, MedTech Actuator Accelerator, and MedTech Actuator Global Navigator.

  • Why should I apply for Origin?
    • MedTech Actuator Origin is a fantastic opportunity for early-stage entrepreneurs and innovators to learn and engage with the startup ecosystem, whilst also providing teams with a chance to pitch their ideas. The winner of MedTech Actuator Origin will receive a cash and in-kind prize pack worth over SGD15,000 (~¥1.74million), and fast-tracked entry into MedTech Actuator Accelerator 2025.

      If you’re a MedTech, BioTech or HealthTech project looking to transform into a startup, MedTech Actuator Origin will show you the ropes and provide you with a pathway forward. If you’re lucky and have the ability to pitch the house down, then you might even score some equity-free cash while you’re at it.

      Through intensive learning alongside a cohort of founders and innovators, you’ll be exposed to the ecosystem, industry leaders and so much more before you pitch in multiple rounds to score a place at the Origin finals at the MedTech Actuator Showcase Singapore.

      Topics covered include idea validation, pitching, professional development, structuring your company, tax and legal considerations, navigating Singapore’s healthcare ecosystem, and funding for early-stage ventures.

  • What are the key activities of Origin?
    • Over the months of July to September, participants will take part in the following activities:

      • Bootcamp  – August 2–3 and September 3–5

      Come together for a two-day bootcamp in July, where you’ll be introduced to topics such as idea validation, pitching, professional development, structuring your company, tax and legal considerations, navigating Singapore’s healthcare ecosystem, and funding for early-stage ventures. If you get through the semifinal, we welcome you to join the next 3-day bootcamp in September.

      • Semifinal – August 3

      Alongside other Origin semifinalists, you’ll pitch your innovation in front of selected MedTech Actuator ecosystem stakeholders for a place in the Origin finals in September at the MedTech Actuator Showcase Singapore.

      • MedTech Actuator Showcase and Origin final – September 6

      Join MedTech Actuator and the ecosystem for a formal gala dinner to celebrate innovation in healthcare! Origin finalists will pitch for three mins to the audience with the Origin winner announced on the evening.

  • What are the time commitments of Origin?
    • Attendance at the following events is expected of one representative per team:

      • Bootcamp – August 2 – 3, from ~10:00 am – 5:00 pm (JST)
      • Origin semifinal – August 3, from 6 pm – 8:30 pm (JST)
      • MedTech Actuator Showcase Singapore and Origin final – September 6
  • What are the eligibility criteria for Origin?
    • Applicants to MedTech Actuator Origin must:

      • Have a research project, idea or innovation in human health;
      • Be highly motivated to learn about innovation commercialisation, and Singapore’s health startup ecosystem;
      • Be able to attend all program activities scheduled on the key dates listed above; and,
      • Be an early-stage startup based in Japan with at least one Japanese team member.

      At MedTech Actuator, we’re for innovators. This means creating opportunities for innovators from all corners of the system, and from multiple backgrounds and contexts.  MedTech Actuator encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Please reach out to the team if you have any questions about your eligibility.

  • I am currently studying/working/between degrees. Can I still apply for Origin?
    • Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria listed above, we encourage you to apply!

      If you have any questions about your eligibility, please reach out to Makenzie Thomas – at makenzie@medtechactuator.com.

  • I live/work/study overseas, can I still apply for Origin?
    • To be eligible for Origin, at least one team member must be based in Japan.

      If you are currently overseas, e.g. for work or study but fit within the eligibility above and a team member can attend the in-person components of the program in Singapore then, yes, we would encourage you to apply.

      If you have any questions about your eligibility, please reach out to Makenzie Thomas – makenzie@medtechactuator.com.

  • What are the application questions?
    • The application includes around 20 questions and you will also be required to submit a video. We recommend that you complete the application from a computer.

      Download a copy of the application questions here.

  • When will I know if my application has been successful?
    • Applications close on July 7 and successful candidates will be notified by Close-of-Business (COB) on July 9.

  • What are the prizes for Origin and how can I use or spend them?
    • The winner of MedTech Actuator Origin 2024 will receive cash and in-kind prize pack worth over SGD15,000 to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. An added bonus is the fast-tracked entry into MedTech Actuator Accelerator 2025!

  • I still have questions about Origin. Can I speak to someone?
  • How do I apply for Origin?
    • Applications will open soon!

      In the meantime, you can submit an Expression of Interest here. We will notify you when applications open.

MedTech Actuator Global Navigator (Melbourne)

  • How much are the participation fees?
    • The MedTech Actuator™ does not take equity for participation in the program. The cost of the programme is S$20,000 per person.


      A subsidised rate of S$5,000 per person will be available for Singapore startups with at least 30% Singapore shareholding. Up to 2 representatives per startup is able to participate in the program at this subsidised rate.

  • What is included in the participation fee?
    • For Singapore startups: All online seminars, plane tickets to, from and within Australia, lodging as well as food and transportation within the scheduled program in Australia.

      For all other startups: All online seminars, lodging as well as food and transportation within the scheduled program in Australia. Flights and transportation from and to the airport are not included for non-Singaporean startups.

  • What is the application process?
    • Please submit your application through the Apply Now button on the webpage. Please also attach a pitch deck introducing your company, the needs that your innovation addresses, the technology behind the innovation, which stage of development is your product at and other relevant information that you deem fit. 

      If your application is shortlisted, you’ll hear from us via email. The most promising teams will be offered a place in the MedTech Actuator Global Navigator Program.

  • Am I eligible?
    • Our program is targeted towards MedTech, HealthTech, and BioTech startups  ~TRL 4 and above. Our specialty is deep tech with robust IP and a regulated path to market. Slick apps and user interfaces are great, but what gets us excited are radical new technologies like bionics, diagnostics, implants, instrumentation, robotics, personal preventative medicine, telemedicine, AI and VR that will create a step-change in our healthcare systems and economies.

      If you are unsure about eligibility or have any other questions about our program, you can speak to our Head of International Programmes before submitting an application.

  • How do you choose which companies to accept into the MedTech Actuator?
    • We look for passionate, well-rounded founder teams with strong skills in key areas such as technology, clinical, business and commercialisation that have a unique insight into their market and are high-integrity and inspiring leaders with a focus on execution.

      Ideas matter but the execution makes the difference. That is why we like to see evidence of early traction or data points validating your core assumptions such as early proof of concept and safety data, a robust need validation, or expressions of interest from lead users or customers.

  • Can you describe the MedTech Actuator Global Navigator program?
    • The MedTech Actuator Global Navigator program is a market-access program that facilitates a smooth and accelerated pathway for growing ventures to both gain a deep insight into the market and access critical stakeholders in the Australian ecosystem as they expand their international efforts and capture new market opportunities.

  • What are the attendance requirements?
    • The MedTech Actuator Global Navigator requires full-time participation for both the virtual sessions held in Singapore and the in-person visit to Sydney and Melbourne. The MedTech Actuator Global Navigator 2022 program also includes a one-of-a-kind MedTech Actuator Showcase event where participants will have the opportunity to network with 300 of the nation’s healthcare experts.

  • Where should I be based to be eligible to participate in the MedTech Actuator and where is the program delivered?
    • There are no restrictions to where you are based, so long as you are able to attend the online sessions held in Singapore Time. You must also be able to attend the in-person Melbourne segment of the program. 

  • How is the MedTech Actuator Global Navigator different from other programs?
    • The MedTech Actuator Global Navigator is a well-rounded program comprising many segments that come together to provide startups with a comprehensive suite of resources.

      We ensure that you are prepared for the visit by providing localised knowledge and deep insights on the destination’s ecosystem with experts. With this insight and knowledge, you will then prepare a more focused pitch and expansion strategy. 

      At the destination ecosystem, you will meet ecosystem stakeholders to advise on how to break-down barriers to entry and explore strategic tactics to assist your business to flourish. You will also put your pitch training into practice with tailored investor lunches. On top of group meetings, we will also facilitate one-to-one meetings with stakeholders that are curated to your needs. 

      Post immersion program, you can be connected with an industry advisor or mentor to help you further understand how to navigate within the ecosystem.

MedTech Actuator Accelerator

  • What does the Accelerator program involve?
    • The program accelerates your commercial strategy, team capability and tech development over two 3-month phases while providing access to a network of founders, service providers and industry experts. 

      In Phase 1, you’ll participate in monthly Intensive Sprints – 3 days with your cohort learning specialised content from industry experts. You’ll master business fundamentals, market validation, and go-to-market strategy. In the time between Sprints, you’ll work independently to implement what you’ve learned, progress your technology and prepare your Data Room with the help of our resources and support. At the end of Phase 1 we engage industry experts to review your Data Room and prepare a thorough report on your progress and areas for improvement.

      In Phase 2, we meet monthly for three Strategy Days – deep dives into capital raising strategy, leadership and negotiation. These are accompanied by Accountability Standups with the cohort, to share your wins, woes and wishes. In the alternating fortnights, you’ll have an individual progress meeting with the Program Lead to share updates on your development plan. You also gain access to 6 hours of matched mentoring with industry experts, tailored to the specific needs of your team. 

      Phase 2 culminates in our Demo Day where you’ll have the opportunity to pitch in front of the ecosystem and investors. At the end of the Accelerator, founders walk away with a clear roadmap and understanding of commercialisation, and will be ready to launch, or have launched, a fundraising round.

      Beyond the core program, we maintain ongoing support to ensure your continued growth and success in the market.

  • What can you expect from a day in the Accelerator?
    • No two days in the Accelerator are the same, but here is a brief overview of what to expect:

      Sprint Days: Kick off the day with coffee and connecting with your cohort, followed by interactive workshops led by industry experts on topics like IP strategy, team building, product development, and startup financials. Enjoy a networking lunch and hear from founders of successful startups like Nutromics, VitalTrace, and Navi Medical. Wrap up the day with alumni drinks, pitch practice, or a fireside chat.

      Between Sprints: Focus on towards milestones, refining strategies with your team, advancing your technology, and preparing key investor documents for your upcoming Data Room Review. Join your cohort for an Accountability Standup between Sprints to share your wins, woes and wishes.

      Intensive by Design: A fast-paced program to build momentum and drive you toward your next value inflection point.

  • Where is the program delivered?
    • Phase 1 of the Accelerator program is delivered in person at our Melbourne office, located at 550 Bourke Street. We encourage teams to be based in Victoria to fully participate in the in-person Sprints.

      Some shorter sessions, such as Accountability Standups and additional pitch practices, will be held online. This approach allows some flexibility, but please note that in-person attendance is essential for Sprints.

      Phase 2 is delivered online, except for the in-person Demo Day in Melbourne.

  • What are the attendance requirements?
    • At least one team member must attend each day of the Melbourne-based Sprints in person, and ideally, a core team member should lead participation. No more than two team members can participate in the program.

      While we encourage all teams to have one full-time team member working on the startup, we understand that this is not feasible for all teams. Attendance is flexible based on roles and responsibilities but should be organized to ensure your team can fully engage with the program content and activities.

  • What is a Data Room Review and why is it important?
    • A Data Room Review is a thorough evaluation of all the documentation and materials investors will assess during due diligence. This process ensures you’re fully prepared for investor scrutiny, providing a comprehensive review of both your company’s operations and future potential.

      We examine:

      • Company documentation
      • Investor pitch deck and executive summary
      • Market validation evidence
      • Clinical validation and regulatory strategy
      • Product development roadmaps and technical documentation
      • Intellectual property strategy and protection
      • Company financials and capital raising plans
      • Risk analysis and mitigation plans

      Each document is reviewed by relevant experts within our network, including legal partners, IP specialists, and industry veterans. We’ll help identify any gaps, refine your story, and ensure your data room presents a compelling, investor-ready narrative.

  • What kind of mentorship is provided?
    • We’ve curated a top-tier group of experts to help guide you through the challenges of scaling your startup. These include Entrepreneurs-in-residence, Clinicians-in-residence and Experts-in-residence – each bringing valuable, hands-on experience to address specific needs. You can explore the mentor pool here.

      Your Program Lead will match you with a mentor in Phase 2 of the program, based on your specific challenges and goals. You’ll have the flexibility to meet 1:1 with one or more mentors, and we recommend coming prepared to make the most of each session.

  • Are there any post-program support or resources available?
    • Yes! Our commitment to your success continues long after the program. After graduation, you become part of the MedTech Actuator community, with access to our Slack group. This is a great place to connect with founders from all past cohorts, share advice, and tap into the collective knowledge of the community.

      We also keep you informed about industry events, ecosystem opportunities, and potential partnerships. Additionally, we provide extended access to program resources, including ongoing capital-raising advice and mentorship when needed.

      As part of our portfolio, we continue to support you by sending quarterly updates to our network of investors, keeping your progress on their radar.

  • Why does the MedTech Actuator have an equity fee?
    • Rather than charging up front for program participation, the MedTech Actuator receives rights to equity. This approach aligns our interests with your startup’s success, ensuring we’re fully invested in your growth and motivating us to go the extra mile to help you achieve your goals for the long-run, well beyond the 6-month program phase. 

      The 5% equity contribution makes our unique, six-month program sustainable, allowing us to offer extensive support—including access to over 100 expert speakers, one-to-one mentoring, and lifetime access to our resources and community. This model enables us to provide valuable support without taking capital from early-stage startups.

  • How do you help startups to raise funds through the Accelerator?
    • Our program is designed to get you investor-ready, equipping you with the essential tools, resources, and knowledge needed to navigate investor expectations and successfully manage a fundraising round.

      We integrate our investor community throughout the program, offering valuable opportunities for connection. You’ll also have the chance to pitch to investors at our Demo Day, when you graduate from the program. 

      Additionally, we keep investors updated on the progress of our portfolio companies, ensuring they’re aware of your growth, achievements and open rounds.

  • What types of companies or technologies are most suited for the program?
    • Our program is targeted at Australian MedTech, HealthTech, and BioTech startups, generally at a TRL 3 and above. Our specialty is healthcare startups with robust IP and a regulated path to market, however if your healthcare product has the potential to impact human lives then we’d love to see an application from you.

      Slick apps and user interfaces are great, but what gets us excited are radical new technologies like diagnostics, implants, instrumentation, robotics, personal preventative medicine, precision medicine, telemedicine, consumer health, AI and VR that will create a step-change in our healthcare systems and economies.

  • Is my startup eligible?
    • To be eligible for the Accelerator, your startup must meet the following criteria:

      • Your startup must be founded in Australia, either by being incorporated here or by having the majority of its founders residing in Australia. 
      • You must be able to attend key events, including Sprints and the Demo Day, in person in Melbourne.
      • At least one co-founder must be actively involved in the program for its duration.

      Please note that setting up a startup and commercialising medical technology is demanding. The Accelerator is intensive and requires that teams can commit sufficient resources.

      If you’re unsure about your eligibility or have any questions, feel free to reach out to Lizzie, our Program Lead on Calendly.

  • What is the application process?
    • Applications are now open for the MedTech Actuator Accelerator. If your startup is ready to scale, we want to hear from you!

      1. Apply Online
        Fill out our application form which includes a 2-minute pitch video to showcase your startup. You can check out the application questions in advance here. Applications close on 21 March.
      2. Interview
        If selected, you’ll be invited to pitch online to our Innovation Assessment Board (IAB)—a panel of MedTech experts. This involves a 5-minute pitch, and 10 minutes of Q&A on 27-28 March.
      3. Due Diligence & Selection
        After your pitch, we’ll conduct due diligence to ensure your startup is a good fit for the program.
      4. Acceptance
        Successful applicants will receive an invitation to join the Accelerator and begin their venture development journey.
  • How do you choose which companies to accept into the MedTech Actuator Accelerator Program?
    • There are approximately 15 places available in the Accelerator. We focus on team, market, technology, traction and impact.

      Team: We look for passionate, well-rounded founder teams with strong complementary skills in key areas such as technology, clinical, business and commercialisation. These teams have a unique insight into their market and are high-integrity, inspiring leaders with a focus on execution.

      Market: We like markets within the MedTech, HealthTech and BioTech sectors that are either large but ripe for disruption, underserved, or so radically new they don’t yet exist.

      Technology: Our specialty is deep tech with a regulated path to market. We look for technologies and products with the potential to create unfair market advantage and a clear path towards strong, protectable IP.

      Traction: Ideas matter but the execution makes the difference. That is why we like to see evidence of early traction or data points validating your core assumptions such as early proof of concept and safety data, a robust need validation, or expressions of interest from lead users or customers.

      Impact: Human flourishing is embedded in our DNA, values and approach. Technologies that prevent avoidable illnesses through prediction, prevention and early intervention; improving wellbeing and quality of life for people with existing conditions; and saving lives through medical intervention for life-threatening conditions.

  • Should I reapply if I have been told ‘no’ before?
    • Yes. Sometimes we say no to companies because they are too early in their journey to extract the most value from the MedTech Actuator.

      If you’ve applied for the Accelerator program in the past and continued to develop your company and technology — either within the MedTech Actuator Origin (our early-stage program) or on your own — you should consider re-applying for the MedTech Actuator Accelerator.

  • Can I apply if I am not the founder?
    • Applicants must be a founder or co-founder of the company. The MedTech Actuator Accelerator is designed for early-stage founders who are directly involved in driving the vision and growth of the business. If you’re a co-founder, we’d love to hear from you!

  • Is my application confidential?
    • All information provided during application and due diligence processes remains confidential and is used for the sole purpose of assessing the application only.

  • When will I know if my application has been successful?
    • You’ll hear from us shortly after applications close. If you’re selected for the next stage, you’ll be invited to pitch in front of our Innovation Assessment Board (IAB) within one day of the application deadline – so please keep an eye on your inbox! This involves a 5-minute pitch and answering questions from our panel of industry experts.

      After the IAB interviews, we’ll complete our due diligence process. Within three weeks of the application deadline, we’ll extend offers to successful applicants to join the MedTech Actuator Accelerator.

  • I still have questions about Accelerator. Can I speak to someone?
    • Absolutely! If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out to our Program Lead, Lizzie, at lizzie@medtechactuator.com. You can also book a meeting with her directly via Calendly.