The rise of entrepreneurs developing new medical devices is essential to improve health care outcomes - but these innovators need help and advice to obtain the necessary funds and industry support that will make these ambitious projects become a reality.
Flinders University's New Venture Institute is providing this essential guidance through its Venture Dorm program, which helps entrepreneurs to identify market opportunities and understand specific industry requirements to test and validate their cutting-edge ideas.
Flinders is now accepting applications for a special Medical Device edition of Venture Dorm, a unique, hands-on program designed for innovators with early-stage ideas in MedTech or medical devices.
Venture Dorm will run its special Medical Device edition from June 3 to July 22, 2025, with sessions conducted each Tuesday from 5.30pm to 8.30pm in Flinders University at Tonsley. Over the eight-week course, participants will receive mentorship, resources and industry insights to help them successfully navigate the next phase of their projects.
"Whether participants are working on a medical device, assistive technology, diagnostic tool, health wearable, or rehabilitation equipment, this award-winning innovation program will help turn their vision into reality," says Flinders University's Director of Entrepreneurial Growth and Development, Verity Kingsmill.
Venture Dorm helps participants define their ideas and develop an entrepreneurial mindset, while testing and validating their concepts by connecting them with industry experts. They are also taught how to build a viable and sustainable business model, and build their professional network by having them engage with like-minded start-up company founders and mentors.
Ms Kingsmill says this program demonstrates how Flinders University is taking a leading role to develop the brilliant and diverse medical device sector.
"Countless successful start-ups have been born from our Venture Dorm program over the years, and partnering with Flinders University's Medical Device Research Institute is a fantastic opportunity for innovators to fast-track their journey," says Ms Kingsmill.
Professor Karen Reynolds, Director of Flinders University's Medical Device Research Institute, says the immersive Venture Dorm program provides valuable opportunities that connect with industry leaders and other founders.
"Innovation in the medical device space requires more than just a great idea. It takes a strong entrepreneurial mindset, practical skills, and a deep understanding of industry needs," says Professor Reynolds.
"Venture Dorm provides participants with exactly these tools, helping them navigate the complex path from concept to validation."
• Applications for Venture Dorm are open until May 11, via this link: https://www.nviflinders.com.au/venture-dorm-pre-accelerator/
