As part of our commitment to addressing health inequities, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts ("Blue Cross") has launched a refreshed Health Equity Business Accelerator ("Accelerator") program with MassChallenge – a non-profit dedicated to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship through collaboration and development – to better support equity-focused health care startups.

New for the 2025 Accelerator, five health care startups will each receive a one-time grant of $50,000 and participate in three months of tailored programming with relevant Blue Cross leaders and experts in conjunction with MassChallenge.

Approaching its fourth year, the Accelerator provides financial, strategic, and mentorship support to health care startups focused on health equity. Facilitated by Blue Cross and MassChallenge, applications will go through a robust review process and startups selected for the 2025 Accelerator will come together in February for a kick-off event.

"The Accelerator is an important part of Blue Cross' broader commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging," said Ruby Kam, Blue Cross' chief financial officer. "We're thrilled to be working with MassChallenge to further strengthen the program and to support organizations developing health care solutions that will have an important impact."

"We're thrilled to expand our partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts to support the next generation of health equity innovators," says Will Magruder, vice president of partnerships at MassChallenge. "Through the Health Equity Business Accelerator program, we're providing startups with the tools and resources they need to develop scalable solutions that address critical health disparities. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we're working towards a healthier and more equitable future for all."

All previous Accelerator participants will become part of the MassChallenge alumni network, where startups will join an incredible community of innovators, visionaries, and supporters committed to driving impact across industries. This lifelong membership offers opportunities to connect, collaborate, and give back. Additionally, alumni will have access to exclusive deals such as industry-based discounts for tools, data services, coaching, and expertise from vetted, in-kind partners. They will also benefit from investor connections through MassChallenge's Investor Network and have the option to work in the MassChallenge Boston office (subject to availability).