Australian medical technology innovators targeting two of the nation’s most pressing health challenges, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, now have a fresh opportunity to secure funding and commercialisation support, with MTPConnect opening a new round of investment through its Targeted Translation Research Accelerator (TTRA).
The initiative is calling for expressions of interest from Australian small and medium enterprises, including start-ups and research spin-offs, that are developing medical devices to prevent, diagnose, treat, or manage heart disease and complications linked to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Through the program, eligible companies can apply for up to $1 million in non-dilutive funding to help promising technologies move closer to market without sacrificing equity. Applicants will be required to provide a matching cash co-contribution, and submissions close on 30 March 2026.
MTPConnect Chief Executive Officer Stuart Dignam said access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers facing early-stage medtech companies, particularly in device development, where regulatory, clinical and manufacturing hurdles can slow progress.
He noted that the accelerator program has already built strong momentum across the life sciences sector, having invested in 34 projects to date. Beyond financial support, participating companies gain access to MTPConnect’s internal specialists and a network of local and international industry partners, providing guidance across commercial strategy, regulatory pathways and clinical validation.
The program is supported by the Australian Government’s Medical Research Future Fund, reinforcing its focus on translating research into real-world healthcare solutions. Expressions of interest remain open until 30 March 2026, with full eligibility guidelines available through the MTPConnect website.
To help prospective applicants understand the process, MTPConnect will host an information webinar on 4 March 2026.
As Australia continues to grapple with the clinical and economic burden of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, the TTRA initiative is positioned as a critical bridge between scientific discovery and commercial deployment. Backed by a $75.5 million investment pool, the accelerator combines milestone-based funding with regulatory, clinical, and market expertise to help innovations move from the laboratory to patient impact.