CORPORATE CLIENT PROGRAM: CASE STUDY

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

Health Equity Accelerator

Health Equity Accelerator

Health Equity Accelerator

Overview

Overview

Overview

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBS MA) has a longstanding commitment to fostering health equity and supporting innovative solutions that address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. Recognizing the power of partnerships and collaboration, BCBS MA launched the Health Equity Business Accelerator (HEBA) to source, support, and scale startups committed to advancing health equity.


In partnership with MassChallenge, a global network committed to driving innovation, BCBS MA’s 2025 Health Equity Accelerator aims to build upon the successes of past cohorts. These past initiatives highlighted BCBS MA’s dedication to working with mission-driven entrepreneurs who are poised to disrupt traditional healthcare models and drive meaningful change.


HEBA has supported a diverse group of innovative startups that have made significant strides in advancing health equity. Some notable alumni include:


Zócalo Health: Provides virtual primary care designed to serve Latino communities, addressing cultural and language barriers to healthcare access.

Community Health IT: Focuses on improving health information technology infrastructure to enhance care coordination and patient outcomes, particularly in underserved regions.

NourishedRx: Delivers personalized, nutrition-based solutions to address food insecurity and chronic health conditions, improving overall patient wellness.

Health4Equity: Works to ensure equitable access to healthcare resources and supports community-driven solutions for better health outcomes.

DASH Systems: Specializes in aerial logistics technology to enable fast and efficient delivery of medical supplies and essential items to remote or underserved areas.


These startups are prime examples of the impactful work fostered by the Health Equity Business Accelerator. Through innovative solutions and targeted approaches, these alumni contribute to closing the gap in healthcare disparities and bringing essential services to communities that need them most.

Engagement

Engagement

Engagement

MassChallenge’s role in this accelerator spans five strategic phases to ensure comprehensive support for BCBS MA and the startups:


1. Design (Q4 2024): Collaborating with BCBS MA to define innovation challenges and priorities through workshops, curriculum design, speaker selection, and preparation of a targeted marketing launch.

2. Sourcing (November 2024): Facilitating an open, equitable application process, running from October 29th through December 2nd. This phase includes hosting informational sessions and partnering with key referral networks.

3. Selection (December-January 2025): Coordinating expert judging to identify top startups that align with BCBS MA’s objectives. Up to five startups will be selected, with BCBS MA assigning champions to work with them.

4. Acceleration (February-June 2025): Kickstarting the program and delivering a comprehensive curriculum, connecting startups to relevant mentors and resources. The program will culminate in a live showcase event celebrating the startups’ progress and MassChallenge’s impact.

5. Assessment (July 2025): Conducting a post-program evaluation, including feedback surveys and a final report for BCBS MA stakeholders, and onboarding startups into the alumni network for continued support.

Come Solve with Us

Join our community of over 8,000 founders & mentors tackling massive challenges.

© 2024 Mass Challenge. All Rights Reserved.

Come Solve with Us

Join our community of over 8,000 founders & mentors tackling massive challenges.

© 2024 Mass Challenge. All Rights Reserved.

Come Solve with Us

Join our community of over 8,000 founders & mentors tackling massive challenges.

© 2024 Mass Challenge. All Rights Reserved.