Several health tech organizations are collaborating on a new funding program designed to rapidly develop technology for older adults and related care organizations.
The first annual envisAGE Call for Innovations is looking to assist near-ready projects with funding, project coaching, and other networking support, program partners announced recently.
EnvisAGE’s “ecosystem” includes innovation hubs for tech such as artificial intelligence and remote sensors, centers that work to integrate tech into senior living and care spaces, and community “labs” that are willing to test tech on a pilot basis.
The categories in which project proposals can choose from:
- Autonomy and Independence
- Cognitive Health and Dementia
- Healthy Lifestyles and Wellness
- Staying Connected
- Supportive Homes and Communities
The program is being started by two Canadian organizations: AGE-WELL, a support network for senior tech, and MEDTEQ+, a Montreal-based investment group for healthtech.
EnvisAGE is looking, in particular, for small and medium-sized tech startups to support.
In addition to the envisAGE program, several technology solutions for long-term care were showcased at AgeTech Innovation Week in Toronto last month.
Canada is one of many countries facing the prospect of a rapidly graying population. Although East Asia and Western Europe have the largest percentage of older adults, the United States and Canada are composed of 17% and 18% seniors, respectively, data show.
In response to the rise in older adults, governments and nongovernment organizations now are looking to demonstrate commitment to high-end senior care on a national level, often in the form of those kinds of tech showcases.
A similar convention, with new “radical” tech such as virtual reality trainers, was held in Finland over the summer, the McKnight’s Tech Daily reported.
Companies looking to submit proposals to envisAGE have until Nov. 23; further guidelines can be found here.
