The Venture Challenge supports early-stage life sciences and MedTech teams in transforming scientific innovations into investable business propositions. Over the course of the programme, participating teams refine their value proposition, market strategy and business model with guidance from experienced mentors. The final pitches at the Innovation for Health conference offered a snapshot of the teams’ progress and ambitions. The session was moderated by Chrétien Herben of Health~Holland, and the winner was announced by Jeroen Heijs, Acting Director of Innovation and Knowledge at the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

This winter edition featured six innovative teams addressing major healthcare challenges.

HomeRun is developing a painless, patient-friendly device for capillary blood self-sampling at home. Designed initially for colorectal cancer patients, the technology aims to make frequent blood monitoring easier and less burdensome, reducing hospital visits while improving patient comfort and adherence to follow-up care.

VU-AMS presented its science-based physiological sensing platform for monitoring stress in daily life. Already used in academic research, the technology enables researchers to collect reliable physiological data outside laboratory environments and could expand into corporate research and clinical fields such as cardiology, psychiatry and occupational health.

GlobalLimb is tackling the global shortage of high-quality prosthetic care. Its AI-powered 3D Pro Flow solution automates the design of prosthetic sockets using a database of expert designs, combined with 3D scanning and printing technologies. The approach aims to make well-fitting prosthetics more accessible worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

UCANACT is developing brain-computer interface software that translates brain signals into digital commands. The system enables people with severe motor disabilities to control personal devices and smart home technologies, helping restore independence and improve quality of life.

AquaWomb is reimagining neonatal care for extremely premature infants. Its perinatal life support system recreates the natural womb environment by connecting babies to an artificial placenta via the umbilical cord in a fluid-filled setting, allowing fragile organs to continue developing while reducing the risks associated with conventional incubators.

The jury ultimately selected Syntric Medical as the winner. The team is developing a CT-guided solution that improves needle placement during lung biopsies by compensating for patient breathing. This technology could significantly enhance the accuracy and safety of biopsies, particularly in early-stage lung cancer diagnosis where precise tissue sampling remains challenging.

The jury praised Syntric Medical for its strong scientific foundation, clear clinical vision and compelling pitch.

Reflecting on the programme, the team noted:

“The Venture Challenge was pivotal in sharpening our proposition and putting our focus on where it really matters. Thus, it fastens our path to create the future of interventional radiology and to bring our technology closer to patients.”

With the Venture Challenge completed, the participating teams are now seeking partners, investors and experts to further accelerate the development and implementation of their innovations.