Charlotte is launching gBETA Charlotte Health, a pre-accelerator program for early-stage digital health startups, in collaboration with Advocate Health. The original gBETA Charlotte, launched in 2024, has graduated 10 companies that have raised $2.2 million and created 69 jobs, according to the City of Charlotte.
gBETA Charlotte Health will launch on April 2 and is recruiting innovative startups. Partnering with Advocate Health, the program aims to help companies scale and improve healthcare delivery. Shahid Rana, director of Charlotte Economic Development, said the collaboration will provide founders with mentorship, capital, and resources to grow.
The seven-week program will be held at Connect Labs Charlotte in The Pearl, Advocate Health’s innovation district. Startups will have access to amenities and a location near healthcare institutions and research partners. Dr. Rasu Shrestha, chief innovation and commercialization officer for Advocate Health, said the site immerses founders in a vibrant ecosystem at the crossroads of research, academic excellence, and community impact.
gBETA Charlotte Health is seeking founders and pre-seed companies with high growth potential in Charlotte. The program focuses on scalable, innovative solutions in care delivery and health sustainability, offering hands-on coaching and access to mentors and investors, according to Charlotte Economic Development. Vanessa Huerta, Partner and VP of gBETA at gener8tor, said the partnership with the City of Charlotte and Advocate Health helps drive meaningful community impact.
The program aims to position The Pearl as a hub for medical innovation and is expected to create thousands of jobs over the next 15 years. Startups and founders can apply on the gBETA Charlotte Health website. An informational session will be held on January 28 from 4–6 p.m. at The Pearl, offering a closer look at the program and networking opportunities.
