College of Science and Health Launches Bio-Entrepreneurship Accelerator
The College of Science and Health at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) has launched the Bio-Entrepreneurship Initiative Pathway (BIP) Accelerator, a first-of-its-kind, cohort-based program designed to support early-stage entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators working at the intersection of biotechnology, public health, health innovation, and community-driven solutions.
“Across the country, founders from underrepresented backgrounds receive a disproportionately small share of startup funding not due to a lack of talent or ideas, but because of limited access to capital, mentorship, and networks,” said Monica Ferrini, PhD, Dean of the College of Science and Health at CDU.
Powered by CDU and sponsored by Kaiser Permanente, BIP Accelerator participants will receive hands-on technical assistance, workshops, mentorship, and venture development support to help translate ideas into scalable and sustainable ventures.
“At CDU, we see innovation as both a responsibility and an opportunity,” said Ferrini. “This program strengthens pathways to economic mobility, reinforces the University’s role as an anchor institution, and ensures that innovation reflects and uplifts the communities it is meant to serve.”
The BIP Accelerator will run February 2026 through December 2026 and culminates in a Final Pitch Fest where participants will compete for up to $20,000 in seed funding to advance their business or social enterprise. CDU faculty, staff, students, and alumni, as well as small business owners and community innovators with health-focused business or social enterprise ideas are encouraged to apply.
Applications are open until February 16. For more information, email: accelerator@cdrewu.edu