Sheba Medical Center’s ARC Innovation Center Launches First U.S. Accelerator in Massachusetts
BOSTON, Mass. — Sheba Medical Center, the largest hospital in the Middle East, has announced the launch of its first U.S.-based accelerator, the ARC Boston Soft-Landing Pad, in partnership with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The initiative marks a major expansion for Sheba’s Accelerate, Redesign, Collaborate (ARC) Innovation Center, which aims to advance global health innovation through digital and AI-driven solutions.
Set to begin in March 2026, the six-month accelerator will support both local and international startups seeking entry into the U.S. healthcare market. Participating companies will receive guidance on regulatory pathways, clinical validation, investment readiness, and academic collaboration, along with access to shared office space, networking opportunities, and non-dilutive grants for pilot projects across Massachusetts.
“Sheba’s partnership with Massachusetts creates a powerful bridge for startups in our global network,” said Prof. Eyal Zimlichman, Chief Transformation Officer and Chief Innovation & AI Officer at Sheba Medical Center. “ARC Boston will connect digital health and AI technologies with real clinical needs, accelerating adoption and improving patient care worldwide.”
Established in 2019, Sheba’s ARC Innovation Center has grown into one of the world’s most active healthcare innovation ecosystems, supporting more than 120 startups across international hubs. Companies in the ARC network have collectively raised hundreds of millions of dollars, with several reaching unicorn status. Notable alumni include Aidoc, known for its AI-powered stroke detection tools; Belkin Vision, recently acquired by Alcon for its glaucoma screening technology; and MD Clone, a data-sharing platform recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of its “Best in Business.”
The launch follows the May announcement of Sheba’s collaboration with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The state, already a global leader in life sciences and healthcare innovation, is home to more than 1,000 biotech firms, world-class research institutions, and roughly $8 billion in annual biopharma investment.
“It’s great that Sheba ARC has chosen to expand here in Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey at the time of the announcement. “Our state stood out because we are already a global hub for health care innovation with unmatched talent. We look forward to the opening of their new accelerator, which will contribute to our innovation-based economy and lead to new discoveries that improve lives.”
Applications for the ARC Boston Soft-Landing Pad are open through November 1, 2025, with selected startups to be invited for interviews by the end of November. The inaugural cohort begins in March 2026.
