Applications open for aspiring medical device innovators

Until 11 May, Flinders University is accepting applications for a special Medical Device edition of its Venture Dorm program. The program, an initiative of Flinders’ New Venture Institute, seeks to help entrepreneurs to identify market opportunities and understand specific industry requirements to test and validate their ideas.

“Whether participants are working on a medical device, assistive technology, diagnostic tool, health wearable or rehabilitation equipment, this award-winning innovation program will help turn their vision into reality,” Flinders’ Director of Entrepreneurial Growth and Development, Verity Kingsmill, said.

The Venture Dorm program helps participants define their ideas and develop an entrepreneurial mindset, while testing and validating their concepts by connecting them with industry experts. Participants are also taught how to build a viable and sustainable business model, and are helped to build their professional network via engagement with like-minded startup company founders and mentors.

“Innovation in the medical device space requires more than just a great idea. It takes a strong entrepreneurial mindset, practical skills, and a deep understanding of industry needs,” the Director of Flinders’ Medical Device Research Institute, Professor Karen Reynolds, said. “Venture Dorm provides participants with exactly these tools, helping them navigate the complex path from concept to validation.”

The special Medical Device edition of Venture Dorm will run from 3 June to 22 July 2025, with sessions conducted each Tuesday from 5.30 to 8.30 pm at Flinders’ Tonsley campus. Over the eight-week course, participants will receive mentorship, resources and industry insights to help them successfully navigate the next phase of their projects.

Applications can be made here, via the New Venture Institute website.

Image caption: Flinders University Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling, MDRI Director Professor Karen Reynolds, Minister for Trade and Investment Joe Szakacs and Maggie O’Neill, Head of Marketing and Operations at Hearts and Minds Investments, examining new medical devices in a Flinders lab at Tonsley. Image: Supplied.