The Sandbox Challenge Program is designed to find and accelerate digital health solutions that address key healthcare challenges in Massachusetts. The program is funded and administered by the Massachusetts eHealth Institute (MeHI) at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.
Each Challenge begins with a call for applications. Companies from across the United States are encouraged to apply, with the goal of 50% of selected companies having a presence in Massachusetts. Between 6-8 selected entrepreneurs participate in a two-month, virtual 'Introduction to the Massachusetts Digital Health Ecosystem' program. During the program, participants are also assessed on their testing and validation needs and then matched with members of the MA Digital Health Sandbox Network, a group of cutting-edge research and development organizations supporting digital health companies.
Challenges culminate in judged competitions where participants pitch both their product and their proposed Sandbox project. Judges select winners to each receive $50,000 in tuition paid directly to the Sandbox to complete their testing and validation projects. This level of funding can typically cover user experience testing, access to cutting edge lab facilities and subject matter experts, or a small pilot in a healthcare setting. Read about previous projects funded through the Sandbox Program here.
Challenge 2 - Women’s Health
The Women’s Health Challenge sought startups and entrepreneurs who are developing and validating digital health solutions that support women+ health. Learn more about the Women’s Health Challenge and the winners here.
Challenge 1- Healthy Aging
The Healthy Aging Challenge sought startups that are developing solutions that improve the lives of older adults and help them remain active, productive, independent, and socially connected. Learn more about the focus of the Healthy Aging Challenge and the four winners here.