Heart of Innovation HBCU Challenge

Seeking solutions that improve social drivers of health, improve cardiovascular health or promote healthy environments.

Health is a holistic concept shaped by social, physical and environmental influences. To improve overall health outcomes, it’s essential to address social factors, enhance cardiovascular wellness and create healthier environments.¹

Social factors — like education, economic stability, community connections and healthcare access — have a powerful impact on health.¹ By focusing on these areas, we can make meaningful improvements, especially for strategically undervalued communities that face barriers to health equity. Innovative approaches such as community-driven initiatives, digital health solutions and partnerships across different sectors are proving to be effective ways to leverage these social influences for better health for everyone.²

Cardiovascular health is another critical area where novel solutions are needed. Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, and much of this is preventable through improved lifestyle behaviors, access to quality healthcare and better management of underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes.³ The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of integrated strategies that address individual behaviors and social drivers to effectively reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases.³

Creating vibrant, health-forward environments is a game-changer for cardiovascular health.4 Healthier environments — those with clean air, accessible green spaces, safe areas for physical activity, and reduced exposure to harmful pollutants — play a critical role in reducing risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.⁴ Such environments make it easier for individuals to engage in regular exercise, maintain healthier diets and reduce stress, all of which are protective against heart disease.⁴ Plus, these community-wide improvements help lower healthcare costs and bridge health gaps, building a foundation for better heart health for all.⁴

Creating solutions in these areas will thrive on teamwork across disciplines, combining technology, community engagement and policy support. With this in mind, the American Heart Association and MATTER are seeking novel solutions that improve social drivers of health, improve cardiovascular health or promote healthy environments.

See the full Terms and Conditions.

This four-week, cohort-based accelerator will provide participants with access to exclusive resources and interactive curricula from subject matter experts to build their solutions and refine their value propositions. The accelerator will be facilitated virtually. One winning solution will receive a $10,000 grant.

• Engage with other cutting-edge startups
• Network with peers and leading influencers
• Gain exposure to the American Heart Association and MATTER communities
• Present brand story to potential investors, partners and clients at a final showcase
• Receive a free, six-month MATTER membership

November 11: Applications open
January 6: Applications close
January 6 - January 17: Meetings with top candidates
January 20: Cohort announced
January 27 - February 17: Four-week accelerator
Week of February 24: Virtual final showcase

We’re seeking undergraduate students, graduate students and alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities within the U.S. who are developing a technology solution that addresses the challenge statement in one or more of the following areas:

• Improve social drivers of health
• Improve cardiovascular health
• Promote healthy environments

Submissions will be evaluated with the following criteria in mind:

• Ability to clearly articulate the challenge statement addressed in the challenge description
• Quality, feasibility and scale of proposed solution or technology
• Differentiation of solutions within the competitive landscape
• Capability of participant/team to develop and execute solution

Applications open on November 11, 2024, and close at 11:59 pm CT on January 6, 2025. MATTER will select up to 10 applicants to determine their fit for participation in the program.

The program will run from January 27 through February 17, 2025. Participants will give presentations at a final showcase during the week of February 24, 2025.

If you are interested in learning more about any of the above opportunities to support the Heart of Innovation HBCU Challenge program, please contact olyvia@matter.health.

1. “Assessing and Addressing Social Determinants of Cardiovascular Health,” Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 2024.
2. “Beyond Health Care: The Role of Social Determinants in Promoting Health and Health Equity,” Kaiser Family Foundation, 2018.
3. “Cardiovascular diseases,” World Health Organization, 2021.
4. “Neighborhoods and Cardiovascular Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association,” AHA|ASA Journals, 2023.

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

At MATTER, we believe collaboration is the best way to improve healthcare. The MATTER collaborative includes more than 1,000 current and alumni startups from around the world, working together with dozens of hospitals and health systems, universities and industry-leading companies to build the future of healthcare. Together we are accelerating innovation, advancing care and improving lives. For more information, visit matter.health and follow @MATTERhealth.