— Press Release —
New Brunswick, NJ, October 10, 2024 – The Johnson & Johnson Foundation today announced the launch of the Innovations in Health Equity LatAm accelerator program that will support 10 healthcare startups from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico to address critical healthcare challenges in Latin America.
Village Capital, the largest organization in the world supporting impact-driven, seed-stage startups, which has run over 20 accelerator programs involving more than 18 countries in Latin America, will deliver the accelerator program. The program will seek innovative solutions to equip healthcare workers and connect more communities to care, specifically and low- and middle-income communities in Latin America. If selected, start-ups will benefit from mentorship, financial analysis, media exposure, networking opportunities, continued learning and collectively up to $50,000USD in financial support.
“One-third of the population in Latin America face barriers in connecting to quality care and we believe the best ideas, technologies, or solutions to address this challenge will come from those closest to it,” said Gustavo Galá, International Vice President, Johnson & Johnson MedTech Latin America. “That’s why we are proud to see this program launch and excited about its potential to address these health disparities.”
Even as efforts to improve access for the population persist, many countries across the region face health investments below the levels recommended by the Pan American Health Organization for optimal care. This shortfall can impact the quality of healthcare services, leading to geographic disparities and economic barriers for patients.
To improve health across the region, it is crucial to equip healthcare workers with tools and resources so they can connect directly with communities and integrate them into the healthcare system. The accelerator program’s curriculum is uniquely designed to help startups bridge finance and knowledge gaps that can improve their chances of developing a viable and scalable idea, technology, or solution to support these efforts.
“Equipping early-stage startups with resources to succeed means better health and well-being for their communities and a stronger healthcare system overall,” said Daniel Cossío, Regional Director, Latin America at Village Capital. “We are thrilled to be launching this new program with the support of Johnson & Johnson Foundation and look forward to reviewing applications from talented entrepreneurs pushing the envelope in the region.”
Applications are open until December 6, 2024. The program will run mid-February through early April 2025. Full details and eligibility criteria can be found here.
