The 4C Accelerator is aimed at founders with innovative product ideas in medical technology. Until Tuesday, February 10, 2026, startups in the fields of medical devices, software as a medical device, and in vitro diagnostics can apply for the free qualification program. The goal of the accelerator is to prepare young medtech teams for the specific requirements of the healthcare industry.
Since 2021, the 4C Accelerator has supported founders in developing a business model that is both entrepreneurially successful and regulatory compliant. Medtech startups face high barriers to market entry, as regulatory requirements, certifications, and clinical evidence must be considered early on. This is exactly where the program comes in: it imparts practical knowledge in four key subject areas – Commercialization, Certification, Clinical Studies, and Copyright – the so-called 4Cs – and systematically integrates these into the business model.
How the 4C Accelerator is structured
The program is divided into two consecutive parts. In part 1, founders participate in 15 interactive online workshops conducted by the Foundation for Medical Innovations. The teams intensively practice the “4C Business Modelling” method and deepen their understanding of regulatory requirements.
Part 2 follows: a six-month individual 4C coaching program provided by the Medical Innovations Incubator. The coaches support startups in implementing their milestones and further developing their business model. In addition, participants benefit from access to the 4C Community and exclusive events.
Who can apply?
National and international founding teams as well as innovators with pre-competitive business ideas in the fields of Medical Devices, In Vitro Diagnostics, and Digital Health can apply. The workshops are held online and in English. Teams not based in Baden-Württemberg must demonstrate a regional connection by the end of the program, for example through partnerships with local partners.
The application deadline for batch 11 is February 10, 2026. The kickoff workshops start on April 1 and 2, 2026, and the online workshops take place on Fridays from April 10 to July 17, 2026. Thanks to funding from Startup BW, the B. Braun Foundation, and the Hector Foundation, participation is free of charge for founders.
