Health Tech Competition Targets Heart and Brain Diseases

Promising health technologies often struggle to reach the patients who need them most, but a global competition is changing that equation.

The American Heart Association just opened applications for its 2026 Health Tech Competition, connecting innovators with the resources to scale solutions that address cardiovascular and brain health. The competition focuses on conditions like high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure, which affect millions worldwide.

Five finalist companies will present their technologies at Scientific Sessions 2026, the Association's flagship research event, taking place November 6 through 9 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Winners gain access to clinicians, researchers, and investors who can help bring their solutions to patients faster.

The timing matters because cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally. Health systems everywhere face mounting pressure from workforce shortages, rising costs, and growing patient demand. Scalable, data-driven solutions have become essential to delivering timely and effective care.

"For more than a century, the American Heart Association has been at the intersection of science, research, clinical expertise and innovation," said Nancy Brown, the Association's chief executive officer. The competition continues that legacy by advancing evidence-based solutions that reach people where they live, work, and receive care.

Unlike traditional startup competitions, this program emphasizes clinical validation and alignment with proven care practices. The Association seeks technologies backed by clinical or pilot data, a viable business model, and measurable potential to improve patient outcomes across diverse care settings.

The Ripple Effect

The competition represents more than funding opportunities for five companies. By requiring clinical validation and evidence-based approaches, it ensures that winning technologies are positioned for real-world adoption, potentially benefiting millions of patients who struggle to access quality care.

The program also bridges a critical gap between innovation and implementation. Many breakthrough technologies stall before reaching patients, not because they don't work, but because they lack the clinical partnerships and validation needed for widespread adoption.

Applications remain open through September 18, 2026. Finalists will be announced October 10, with live pitches November 7 and 8, and the winner revealed November 9.

The competition forms a cornerstone of the Health Innovation Pavilion at Scientific Sessions, reflecting the Association's commitment to accelerating innovation and fostering collaboration that improves cardiovascular and brain health outcomes worldwide.