At a time when the health and care sector needs smart, labour-saving solutions, technology plays an increasingly important role. Yet despite a growing demand for effective and innovative solutions, new companies often face significant challenges when trying to gain a foothold in the market. This is where CareTech CHALLENGE -- Accelerating Care and Health Technology enters the picture as a key programme for driving innovation in the field. The startup programme has been running since 2020, guiding 44 companies through the process, with the vast majority gaining real momentum during and after their participation.
A journey towards more innovation, implementation and scaling
In 2020, Danish.Care launched CareTech CHALLENGE as an initiative aimed at bringing technology and the health and care sector closer together. With a steadily growing need for innovative solutions to address the challenges facing the sector, the timing was right to connect young companies with a range of experts to help them on their way.
The programme was well received, and 19 companies completed the first round in 2020--2021. At its core, the programme connects companies with its partners, each of whom can assist them in unique areas. Participants are trained in pitching their business, taught how to present their company to investors, given the opportunity to test user perspectives on their product, and take part in workshops on internationalisation, export and sustainability.
"Our goal with CareTech CHALLENGE is to create an environment where companies can thrive and innovate within the care sector. We want to encourage creativity and collaboration so that together we can solve some of the biggest challenges facing the health and care sector."
-- Anders Lyck Fogh-Schultz, Programme Manager
From startup to strategic partnership
Several participating companies have experienced significant growth during and after the programme. One example is Aquatime, which went from being a startup to entering a new strategic partnership with one of the industry's major players.
"CareTech CHALLENGE was the starting point for Aquatime's successful commercial journey in recent years. Today, our smart drinking glass creates value for elderly citizens and care staff in many Danish municipalities."
-- Kim Toft Madsen, CEO/Partner at Aquatime
Aquatime's smart drinking glass has revolutionised the way elderly citizens can meet their hydration needs while also easing the workload of care staff. To date, 44 companies have completed the startup programme.
In March 2025, you can meet this year's CareTech CHALLENGE participants at the Health & Rehab trade fair on 4--6 March at Bella Center in Copenhagen. They will be located in the Startup & Scaleup Zone.