HCF’s Catalyst programme has returned for a second year, building on the success of the pilot programme developed with Slingshot last year. iTWire has a report on its launch here and the results here.

HCF Catalyst is now accepting applications from health entrepreneurs, experts, and other specialists to participate in a 12-week structured programme designed to develop compelling business models and secure the traction, viability, and investment needed to succeed.

Sheena Jack, chief strategy officer at HCF, said, “Our vision is to improve health outcomes for all Australians. To do that, we have to adopt new technologies and business models that help us better meet our members' needs, now and in the future.”

HCF Catalyst start-ups in the first year have secured $2.25 million in funding, demonstrating the strength of the HCF Catalyst programme as a launchpad for entrepreneurs.

Last year’s graduates Curo Technologies secured $1 million investment from HCF, with a deal signed in September 2016. The Melbourne-based company uses sensor technology to help elderly people live independently for longer.

"HCF's commitment to Curo has been significant with regards to investment and time with their leadership team. It has helped to shape Curo today and is an example of how corporates should work with Startups. We could not be happier with the outcome," said Tim McDougall, chief executive of Curo.

This year’s HCF Catalyst themes have been developed around specific areas the HCF would like to innovate, grow and offer to their members and all Australians. They include:

• Making healthcare more affordable
• Making healthcare more understandable
• Delivering high-quality healthcare
• Making healthcare more customer-centric

This year, the programme has been updated to offer start-ups more flexible investment terms.

Key Details

Startups, Scaleups, and entrepreneurs can apply for HCF Catalyst via the website.

Applications for HCF Catalyst are open from 24 October to 25 November.

Finalists will pitch their ideas to a leading panel of judges during the HCF Catalyst Pitch Days on 6 and 7 December at the Atlassian headquarters in Sydney. The cohort will be announced in early 2017.