The greatest challenge faced by startups is conveying the value of their product or technology to their stakeholders and end users. Most developers talk their way through the design of their technology when a well-developed image or rendering is the most efficient method of communication. This translation is particularly important when the startup is seeking funding, investment, or licensing deals. Breaking into the medical device field can be challenging enough; add a complicated device that is poorly communicated and you can send the wrong message. Even worse, your bad design or representation of the product can become the focus of discussion. 

 

New England Pediatric Device Consortium (NEPDC) understands these challenges. NEPDC systematizes the commercialization process for innovators or startups by using a methodology. The consortium then targets specific areas of expertise across business development, product evaluation, and technology development that may have been overlooked or considered inaccessible due to budget constraints.

One of the sub-specialties NEPDC offers within technology development is industrial design.  Best described by the World Design Organization (WDO), “industrial design bridges the gap between what is and what’s possible. It is a trans-disciplinary profession that harnesses creativity to resolve problems and co-create solutions with the intent of making a product, system, service, experience or a business, better”. Simply put: when design support is integrated into early development efforts, it will be an invaluable asset at each subsequent stage of product development and commercialization. Read more here.

Velano Vascular was awarded a Seed Award after completion of a successful Pre-Seed engagement and proposal to NEPDC for additional funding and in-kind service to support commercialization efforts of PIVO, an FDA cleared device that aims to lessen the stressful experience for patients during inpatient blood draws. 

 

      

Dr. Agnes Scoville is the recipient of a Pre-Seed Award to support the commercialization and hospital adoption of Pacidose, a safe and effective baby medicine dispenser.