Accelerating health and startups

Merck Digital Sciences Studio

Our latest applications are now open!

About Merck Digital Sciences Studio

The Merck Digital Sciences Studio (MDS Studio, or MDSS) is an accelerator program providing mentorship, coaching, training, support, community, and investment to enable the next generation of innovative technologies for drug discovery and development. We invest in disruptive and innovative startups in digital biopharma via a SAFE and access to Microsoft's Founders Hub resources. The MDS Studio’s unique design and network empowers startups to engage with industry leading partners, who take an active role in development.

About MDSS in the USA

The Merck Digital Sciences Studio (MDSS) offers a ten-month acceleration program for startups specializing in digital enablement of drug discovery and development. Participants benefit from direct access to Merck's experts receive personalized mentoring and programming from the New Jersey Innovation Institute. They also receive 150,000 USD in funding through the Merck Global Health Innovation Fund, McKesson Ventures, and Northpond Ventures. Additionally, startups will be awarded up to 150,000 USD in Microsoft Azure credits to enhance their technological capabilities. Through the MDSS network, participants enjoy privileged access to key industrial partners, enabling them to make revolutionary advancements in health technology.

About MDSS in Montreal

The Merck Digital Sciences Studio (MDSS) in Montreal offers a six-month acceleration program for startups specializing in digital health and artificial intelligence. Participants benefit from direct access to Merck's experts and receive personalized mentoring from Centech's experts in residence. They will also receive 100,000 USD in funding through the Merck Global Health Innovation Fund and the CQDM. Additionally, startups will be awarded up to 150,000 USD in Microsoft Azure credits to enhance their technological capabilities. Through the MDSS network, participants enjoy privileged access to key industrial partners, enabling them to make revolutionary advancements in health technology.

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MDSS Operators

MDSS Partners in the USA

MDSS Partners in Montreal

Commitment to Diversity

MDSS values diversity across all its programs and investments. We believe founder diversity is more than just an asset, but an investor advantage for building outperforming startups. MDSS is committed to cultivating diversity in our portfolio and the broader ecosystem. We encourage founders from all walks of life, backgrounds, and experiences to apply to our studio programs.

About Our Programs

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Workshops
We work with founders to explore, discuss, and implement startup building best practices.
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Mentorship
Each portfolio company is matched with a mentorship team; one MDSS staff and at least one specialist from our corporate partners. These mentors work with their assigned company through the program and are trained on how to best support startup founders.
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Expert Coaching
Aligning with sprint programming and workshops, MDSS brings in experts, thought leaders, and service providers to provide support to founders in the areas they need.
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Community
Perhaps more important than any other aspect of the programming is the community of support MDSS builds among its cohorts and alumni investments. Cross-collaboration between founders and social events are built into the fabric of MDSS.

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Want to join the next cohort of MDSS and accelerate your Digital Health startup? Apply today!

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