Key Highlights
- CareQuest and MATTER partner to support innovative oral health startups.
- Six startups from 11 countries and 27 US states selected.
- Focus on integrating oral and medical health care through technology.
- Diverse cohort with over 50% minority founders.
- Demo Day at HLTH conference on October 22, 2024.
Source: Business Wire
Notable Quotes
- “We are thrilled with the high caliber of startups participating in this year’s SMILE Health program, furthering the momentum towards integrated health. As our largest and most diverse cohort in the history of SMILE Health, this year’s innovative startups, together with our industry-leading partners, are redefining how we care for the whole person, inclusive of their oral health, and igniting the health innovation ecosystem to drive better health outcomes for all.” — Katie D’Amico, Vice President of Growth & Innovation at CareQuest Innovation Partners
- “SMILE Health creates unique opportunities for startups to accelerate their development and for large, institutional players to explore and test emerging solutions.” — Steven Collens, CEO at MATTER
SoHC's Take
The selection of these innovative startups by CareQuest Innovation Partners and MATTER marks a significant step towards bridging the gap between oral health and overall health care. By focusing on integrated health solutions, the SMILE Health program is addressing critical issues in the oral health industry, which has long been underfunded despite its significant impact on overall health outcomes. The diversity and quality of this year’s cohort highlight a promising future for health equity and innovation in this space. The culmination of the program at the HLTH conference will be an exciting showcase of how these startups can transform health care practices and policies.
