The American Heart Association (AHA) has opened applications for its 2026 Health Tech Competition, a global initiative designed to accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies addressing cardiovascular and brain health. Despite rapid advances in digital health, artificial intelligence, and remote patient monitoring, many promising solutions fail to reach patients who need them most. The competition aims to close that gap by connecting market-ready technologies with opportunities to scale into real-world care settings.
Hosted by the AHA's Center for Technology & Innovation, the competition seeks to identify and accelerate technologies that can transform how conditions like high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure are prevented, diagnosed, and treated. Five finalists will be selected to present their solutions at Scientific Sessions 2026, the Association's flagship global event for cardiovascular science, scheduled for Nov. 6–9 at McCormick Place in Chicago.
The urgency behind this initiative is underscored by the fact that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally. Health systems face growing demand, workforce shortages, and rising costs, making scalable, data-driven solutions critical for delivering timely, effective, and equitable care. The Health Tech Competition connects innovators with clinicians, researchers, and investors to accelerate adoption and bring evidence-based technologies to patients faster.
“For more than a century, the American Heart Association has been at the intersection of science, research, clinical expertise and innovation to drive improvements in cardiovascular and brain health,” said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. “Through the Health Tech Competition, we continue that work by helping advance evidence-based solutions that address today’s most pressing health challenges and reach people where they live, work and receive care.”
The competition is open to emerging companies with market-ready solutions supported by clinical or pilot data and a viable business model. The Association is seeking technologies that actively engage patients, support clinicians, and demonstrate measurable potential to improve patient outcomes across various care settings. Unlike traditional startup competitions, this program emphasizes clinical validation and alignment with evidence-based care, ensuring solutions are positioned for real-world adoption.
Key dates include: applications open now through Sept. 18, 2026; five finalists announced Oct. 10, 2026; live pitches at Scientific Sessions on Nov. 7-8, 2026; and the winner announced Nov. 9, 2026. The Health Tech Competition is a cornerstone of the Health Innovation Pavilion at Scientific Sessions and reflects the AHA's commitment to accelerating innovation and fostering collaboration worldwide.
For more information and to view terms and conditions, visit ahahealthtech.org/aha-health-tech-competition-2026. Additional resources include news about the 2025 winner and finalists, available on the AHA news site. Follow AHA/ASA news on X at @HeartNews.
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With support from more than 35 million volunteers globally, the organization funds groundbreaking research, advocates for public health, and provides critical resources to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs in science, policy, and care, the AHA works to advance health and transform lives every day.
