Founders Factory works with Northwestern Medicine to provide European health tech startups access to hospitals, research facilities, and clinical teams across Chicago

Northwestern Medicine is taking a bold step to reshape healthcare innovation in the United States.

The Chicago-based academic healthcare system has partnered with Founders Factory, a leading global startup accelerator, to bring some of Europe’s most promising healthcare AI startups to the US market.

The initiative is designed to accelerate the adoption of technologies that can transform patient care, enhance research capabilities, and streamline healthcare operations.

Bridging Europe and the US Health Market

The new program is specifically aimed at UK and European founders who are developing AI-driven solutions to tackle pressing healthcare challenges.

By connecting these innovators with one of the nation’s premier integrated healthcare systems, Northwestern Medicine hopes to provide a platform for rapid testing, deployment, and scaling of transformative technologies.

For participating startups, access to Northwestern Medicine’s vast network—including 11 hospitals, over 5,400 affiliated physicians, research facilities, and more than 200 outpatient and diagnostic sites—represents a significant opportunity.

At the heart of the system is Northwestern Memorial Hospital, a world-renowned academic hospital that anchors the health network and provides a collaborative environment for innovation.

A Hands-On Accelerator Experience

Founders Factory will lead the four-month accelerator program, focusing on helping startups commercialize their solutions while navigating the complexities of the US healthcare ecosystem.

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Startups will receive guidance on integrating their technologies with Northwestern Medicine and its partner network, which includes notable institutions like The London Clinic in the UK.

One unique aspect of the program is a residential week in Chicago, where founders will meet directly with clinical and commercial teams.

This hands-on collaboration is designed to ensure that the technologies are not only viable but also aligned with real-world healthcare needs.

Driving Impact in the Largest Healthcare Market

By opening doors for European healthcare AI startups, Northwestern Medicine is not just importing technology—it is fostering innovation that can create measurable impact in patient care.

From reducing operational inefficiencies to enabling cutting-edge research, the partnership aims to make a tangible difference in how healthcare is delivered across the US.

How to Join

Startups interested in participating can apply through Founders Factory’s website.

Applications are open now and will close on March 31st, 2026.

Selected founders will have the opportunity to join a high-profile cohort and gain access to some of the most influential healthcare networks on both sides of the Atlantic.

What’s Next?

After the application window closes, the selected startups will begin the four-month accelerator program, including the Chicago residential week.

Over the course of the program, they will pilot their solutions, receive mentorship from clinical and commercial leaders, and explore commercial opportunities across the US healthcare market.

This collaboration could set the stage for more transatlantic partnerships, opening new pathways for innovation in the healthcare sector.

Summary

Northwestern Medicine and Founders Factory are creating a bridge between European healthcare AI innovation and the US market.

The accelerator program offers founders access to a leading US health system, a structured program to test and scale their technologies, and opportunities to collaborate with clinical and commercial teams.

With applications closing on March 31st, 2026, the initiative promises to drive meaningful change in patient care, research, and healthcare operations across the US.