NYC-based Blueprint Health, a health-focused member of the TechStars Network, has just opened applications for its inaugural program starting on January 9th, 2012. This accelerator program is the only TechStars member to exclusively concentrate on healthcare.
The program plans to offer access to a large network of healthcare entrepreneurs, VCs and innovators. Its current mentors include those who have founded and helped lead companies like Amicas, Eliza, Everyday Health, Generation Health, Healthination, HelloHealth, Keas, Kryuus, Livestrong, MedCommons, Medivo, PatientsLikeMe, Phreesia, ShapeUp and ZocDoc.
Blueprint also has employees from CVS, Johns Hopkins, Johnson & Johnson, Kaiser Permanente, Lockheed Martin, McKinsey Hospital Institute, Take Care Health Systems, Pfizer and WebMD on board. Its investment partners are Aberdare Ventures, ATV, Bessemer Venture Partners, Google Ventures, Highland Capital Partners, HLM Venture Partners, Milestone Venture Partners, Physic Ventures, Psilos and Radius Ventures and Windham Venture Partners.
Startups interested in participating in Blueprint’s program will be focused on technology products for patients, doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, health plans or employers. However, it will not be as focused on consumer-facing apps looking to gain traction.
The group says its not opposed to helping first-time entrepreneurs or those without healthcare experience, given the right vision. It’s also not opposed to single founders, but having a strong team increases a company’s chances of getting selected.
Those accepted into the program receive $20,000 in cash and will be provided with office space in New York during the 3-month program. Free legal support, financial counseling, HR support and, of course, mentorship is also provided. In exchange, Blueprint takes a 6% equity stake in the company.
More details and the online application form are available on the Blueprint Health website.