BioVentures, Venture Center launch ACTIVE program for healthcare startups

Twenty-five healthcare and health tech companies from across Arkansas are participating in the inaugural Arkansas Collaborative for Technological and Innovative Venture Equality (ACTIVE) program. This initiative, which is a partnership between BioVentures LLC. and The Venture Center, aims to enhance health outcomes throughout Arkansas.

The ACTIVE program is dedicated to supporting socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI) with innovative, early-stage healthcare and health technology ventures. This commitment to SEDI addresses underrepresentation and unrealized potential in the health tech sector.

By focusing on SEDI entrepreneurs, ACTIVE promotes equitable innovation in the healthcare industry, driving economic growth, introducing diverse health tech solutions, and improving healthcare outcomes.

“We believe that with the right training, resources, and support, disadvantaged founders can solve the healthcare problems of their communities by creating vibrant businesses,” said Stefanie Kennon-McGill, BioVentures senior program manager. “We are honored to support these entities through the ACTIVE program by providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities to support their aims. Together, we can drive impactful solutions and foster innovation in the healthcare sector.”

The following companies are among this year’s founding ACTIVE cohort:

U Got Wheelz App
Aurum Endeavors LLC
RMP Health Solution
Village Public Health Wellness Center
Perspective Healthcare Solutions
Refilled Glasses, LLC
The Belinga Clinic
Synolo Wellness
Kinder Senior Advocacy
Hey Charlie
365 Yoga Dream
Apothewell
SJ Medical and Supply Company LLC
Still Waters Consulting Group, LLC
Hope House Home Healthcare
NuPad Projectz
Smart Eye Technology
Networked Residential Assisted Living Business
Concierge RN Services
UpSquad
EMPOWER
BodyBenders Fitness Lounge
NutriKidRX
Foster Healing & Hope

“The Venture Center is thrilled to kick off a comprehensive skill training boot camp for the companies joining this initiative. Our goal is to give promising healthcare innovators the tools needed to grow their businesses and make a real impact in the industry. We’ll be covering everything from branding and certifications to cybersecurity, telehealth, and legal considerations. We want to make sure participants are fully prepared to navigate the healthcare and health tech world,” said Daniel Schutte, vice president of strategic partnerships at The Venture Center.

Funding for the ACTIVE program comes from the Minority Business Development Agency’s Capital Readiness Program and is supported by additional partnerships including the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and Philander Smith College.

“The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is excited to be a partner in this great initiative. Providing additional resources for our underrepresented and underserved communities, specifically here in the Delta, is meeting a great need for entrepreneurs and startups alike,” said Angelisa Henry from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.