Supporting Innovation Across Massachusetts Healthcare 

The MeHI Sandbox Mentorship Program connects experienced healthcare leaders with startups participating in MeHI Sandbox Programs, including the Rural Digital Health Sandbox Program, the Sandbox Rolling Grant Program and MeHI’s Digital Health Sandbox Challenge. 

The MeHI Sandbox Mentorship Program provides founders with access to strategic guidance, healthcare expertise and real-world implementation insights as they pilot and scale innovative solutions across Massachusetts. 

Mentorship is designed to be flexible, informal and impact-driven — supporting startups without adding administrative burden. 

How the Program Works

Startups entering the validation phase through MeHI sandbox programs are matched with a small team of mentors who provide guidance throughout the implementation of their sandbox projects. 

Mentor Structure

Each startup is supported by: 

• Primary Mentor - provides strategic guidance on growth, partnerships and scaling within healthcare systems 
• Subject Matter Experts (as needed) - additional advisors engaged based on specific startup needs 

Engagement Model

The program is intentionally light-touch and flexible

• Initial mentor/startup introduction facilitated by MeHI
• Ongoing, as-needed communication
• Optional participation in program events
• Suggested monthly check-ins

Mentors serve as trusted advisors and connectors — not evaluators. 

Who Should Apply

We are seeking mentors with experience in:

• Cybersecurity in healthcare settings
• Digital health, health IT or healthcare innovation
• Healthcare delivery (especially rural health settings)
• Healthcare policy and reimbursement
• Healthcare technology pilots and implementations
• Healthcare systems management and operations 
• Patient engagement strategies 
• Public health and community-based care
• User-centered design in healthcare settings 
• Legal and compliance for health tech companies

Why Become a Mentor

• Contribute to improving healthcare access, quality and outcomes across Massachusetts  
• Engage with MeHI’s programs and statewide partners
• Expand your network within the Massachusetts digital health ecosystem  
• Share your expertise with emerging healthcare leaders and startups  
• Support high-impact innovation in rural and underserved communities  

Program Timeline

• Fall 2026: Sandbox Mentorship Program launches alongside kick-offs for Rural Digital Health Sandbox Cohort 1 and Primary Care Challenge winners’ sandbox projects
• Annually: New startup cohorts join the program
• Ongoing: Mentor engagement throughout pilot periods