MSWA and Founders Factory join forces to back breakthrough technologies for neurological care
In a global first, MSWA has announced a $1.75M joint venture with the global tech startup accelerator Founders Factory, to fund and scale breakthrough technologies designed to transform the lives of people living with neurological conditions.
The program will back and fast-track global startups developing cutting-edge solutions, including the use of AI, robotics and wearables that address neurological conditions.
Startups will receive investment and intensive support from Founders Factory to help move from concept to real-world application for people living with MS.
Founders Factory’s third startup program in WA, following last year’s launch of their programs with Rio Tinto (investing in mining-tech startups) and the Government of Western Australia (investing in nature-tech startups).
MSWA CEO Melanie Kiely said that this initiative not only strengthens the impact that MSWA can create for people with neurological conditions in Western Australia and across the nation but positions the nonprofit to contribute globally.
“MSWA has long been a champion of neurological research, investing more than $47 million in the past decade alone,” she said.
“As the third partner to join Founders Factory in Western Australia, MSWA is proud to play a pivotal role in bolstering our state’s rapidly growing technology ecosystem.
This new innovation strategy marks a bold step forward – transforming cutting-edge research into tangible outcomes for our Clients and the wider neuro community.”
The launch announcement, hosted at MSWA Wilson Services Centre, was endorsed and attended by Premier Roger Cook, with the Premier praising the partnership as a key driver for innovation and growth in the state.
“My government is ensuring all Western Australians can access the healthcare they need, when they need it,” he said.
“WA leads the nation for prevention and care in the neurological community, and this partnership is a great example of what our State does best.
This is a commitment that will ensure WA remains a nation leader in the field and support the wellbeing of all Western Australians.”
Science and Innovation and Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson said the partnership could pave the way for significant medical breakthroughs.
“We know Founders Factory is investing in a range of WA start-ups, which is putting us on the map as a place that welcomes innovative ideas to equip our State for future technologies and opportunities.
“This partnership with MSWA is set to do just that, tapping into the potential of new technologies to find ways in which we can improve the lives of people living with neurological conditions and their caregivers,” he said.
Also, in attendance at the launch was MSWA Client, Nicolette Murphy, who said that she’s excited to see the impact of MSWA grow beyond Australian shores.
“It’s inspiring to consider how innovative solutions could transform the lives of people like me who are living with a neurological condition,” said Nicolette.
Rohan Silva, Chair of Western Australia, Founders Factory added;
“This is the world’s first startup program focused on multiple sclerosis and neurological conditions – and it’s awesome that’s happening in Western Australia.”