Last day to apply to 2018 Merck Accelerator for health, biotech startups

Early-stage startups that develop health and life-science solutions have until midnight today (Central European Time) to apply to join the global 2018 Merck Accelerator programme based in Darmstadt, Germany.

The programme’s website states that the accelerator is particularly focused around three main fields, namely healthcare, life-sciences and performance materials. In addition, startups working on bio-interfaces, 3D printing, sensors and precision farming will also be considered.

Merk Accelerator participants will get up to €50 000 in funding

Up to 12 successful applicants will benefit from up to €50 000 in funding in the form of a silent partnership agreement.

According to Merck’s FAQ page the accelerator will not take an equity stake in the selected startups. However Merck will require that the startups enter into a profit-sharing agreement for less than 10% for a limited time, no more than seven years from the start of the programme.

Participating startups will also get accommodation and office space at the Merck Innovation Center in Darmstadt.

The three-month long global accelerator programme, which is set to run between March and June, will entail deep-dive mentoring sessions as well as travel and conference opportunities. By joining the accelerator, participants will also gain access to a global network of over 50 000 industry leaders and investors.

Past participants of the programme include Ghanaian startup MedRx App which has developed a digital platform that connects patients in need of prescriptions with pharmacies that stock them.

Think you could be the perfect candidate for this accelerator programme? Check out more information and apply here.