These 10 startups are entering Techstars’ first Future of Longevity Accelerator

Well-known national seed accelerator programmer Techstars this week unveiled the first 10 startups that will take part in a new program providing support for elder care innovators.

Techstars’ Future of Longevity Accelerator was created via partnership with Pivotal Ventures, an incubation and investment company created by philanthropist and exec Melinda Gates, who is the foundation cofounder and wife of Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates. Earlier this year, the accelerator announced plans for a D.C.-based program.

With the pandemic, the first cohort will have virtual programming. The 13-week accelerator will aim to help the companies “build strong relationships with thought leaders in the longevity space and leverage a mentor network of industry experts and investors,” per Techstars. Demo day is December 9.

Companies cover a range of categories in the area of caregiving for elderly people, ranging from aging in place to wellness to inclusive design. Seven of the 10 companies are founded by women.

Here’s a look at the cohort, with descriptions via Techstars:

• MemoryWell, the D.C.-based startup founded by Jay Newton-Small that offers senior living facilities a digital platform for life storytelling for their residents
• ConnectCareHero, a startup that enables senior living teams to book curated activity programming and gives families a window into their parent’s or grandparent’s daily joy
• Candoo Tech, which provides virtual and in-home tech support and training specifically designed for older adults
• UpsideHōM, a coliving service for older adults
• Braze Mobility, which makes blindspot sensor systems for people who use wheelchairs
• Naborforce, a platform that enables retirees and empty nesters to earn income by providing companionship and assistance for older adults
• Authored, a startup that designs apparel with discrete openings to solve dressing challenges
• Rezilient Health, which offers robotic telehealth clinics
• Rubitection, a startup addressing detection and management of bedsores, and can detect skin health regardless of skin color
• Wysefit, an app that offers fitness plans for adults over 50