From a blood test to detect early-stage ovarian cancer and world-first artificial heart, to cancer-fighting compounds found in Queensland rainforests, the early-stage companies are developing technologies with the potential to revolutionise global healthcare. 

Delivered by Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), in partnership with US investor platform Life Science Nation, the six-month program is designed to help companies secure the global investors and partners needed to scale globally or bring their technologies to market faster. 

The program will culminate in January 2026, when the cohort pitches to global investors at J.P. Morgan Healthcare Week in San Francisco – the world’s largest healthcare capital marketplace, and a key destination for those seeking the next big breakthrough. 

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the MedTech Global Accelerator was helping to supercharge one of Brisbane’s fastest-growing industries, with the city’s health sector forecast to grow by 36 per cent by 2031. 

“These pioneering companies are tackling some of the world’s biggest health challenges right here in Brisbane,” Cr Schrinner said. 

“Through our MedTech Global Accelerator, we’re backing local innovation and giving these startups the tools and connections they need to take their breakthroughs from Brisbane to the world. 

"Brisbane has a proud legacy of healthcare innovation thanks to our world-class universities, research institutions and talent and this program brings more opportunities to showcase our fantastic local talent.” 

Now in its fourth year, the accelerator has helped more than 30 visionary companies secure $246 million in capital and create more than 250 jobs in Brisbane. 

Brisbane-based ProSeek Bio, part of the new cohort, is on a mission to close the gender health gap with a first-in-class multi-glycoprotein biomarker blood test platform enabling accurate and earlier detection of ovarian cancer. 

Founder and CEO Associate Professor Michelle Hill says the accelerator’s support is a game-changer for taking their breakthrough to the global stage. 

“Ovarian cancer is often called a ‘silent killer’ because symptoms are vague and there’s no routine screening. Most cases aren’t caught until it’s too late,” Associate Professor Hill explains. 

“Right now, about 70% of women are diagnosed too late for the best treatment. Equally concerning, up to 80% of surgeries performed to investigate suspected ovarian cancer turn out to be unnecessary, with tissue pathology ultimately confirming no cancer. 

“We are developing blood tests to accurately triage women requiring ovarian cancer surgery and to enable screening of women at higher risk of ovarian cancer. 

“We will also use our platform to address the bigger problem – women spend around 25% more time in poor health than men and frequently experience longer delays in receiving a diagnosis. 

“Being part of the program means we have the support to scale up and bring this life-saving technology to women everywhere.” 

To learn more about the MedTech Global Accelerator and this year’s cohort, visit here.

 

2025/26 BEDA MedTech Global Accelerator Cohort 

• Aptium AI: Revolutionising podiatry care using world-first instantaneous 4D scanning technology to create customised 3D printed orthotics.
• BiVACOR: Developing a world-first total artificial heart, now in FDA-approved trials, offering new hope for patients with severe heart failure.
• Cool Beans Underwear: The world’s first wearable designed to cool the testicles and support men’s reproductive health — tackling fertility challenges often overlooked in men’s healthcare.
• Fibrosoft: Delivering a breakthrough non-surgical treatment for Dupuytren’s and related fibromatoses – reducing scarring and restoring movement without the pain of surgery.
• Ketim Technologies: Using AI and biomarkers to detect perinatal mental illness early, helping new mums get the right support before symptoms appear.
• LORAI Health: Creating a next-generation hormone therapy patch to provide safer, more effective relief during menopause.
• ProSeek Bio: Developing non-invasive blood tests for precise ovarian cancer diagnosis enabling accurate surgical triage and earlier treatment to save women’s lives.
• QBiotics Group Limited: Harnessing powerful compounds from native North Queensland rainforest plants to develop therapies that destroy cancerous tumours and promote healing.
• STARCO: Using AI to combine complex data, helping doctors diagnose cancer faster, predict disease progression and personalise treatment.
• Talius: Connecting clinicians and patients through a smart, data-driven platform, empowering clinicians with real-time insights for better health outcomes.