The American Heart Association (AHA) has opened applications for its 2026 Health Tech Competition, a global initiative designed to accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies that can transform the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cardiovascular and brain health conditions. Despite rapid advances in digital health, artificial intelligence, and remote patient monitoring, many promising health technologies never reach the patients who need them most. This competition seeks to close that gap by connecting market-ready solutions with opportunities to scale into real-world clinical practice.
Hosted by the AHA's Center for Technology & Innovation, the competition focuses on identifying technologies that can address critical areas such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure. Five finalists will be selected to present their solutions at Scientific Sessions 2026, the AHA's flagship global event for cardiovascular science, scheduled for November 6–9 at McCormick Place in Chicago. The competition underscores the urgency of scalable, data-driven solutions in the face of cardiovascular disease remaining the leading cause of death globally, while health systems grapple with growing demand, workforce shortages, and rising costs.
“For more than a century, the American Heart Association has been at the intersection of science, research, clinical expertise and innovation to drive improvements in cardiovascular and brain health,” said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. “Through the Health Tech Competition, we continue that work by helping advance evidence-based solutions that address today’s most pressing health challenges and reach people where they live, work and receive care.”
The competition is open to emerging companies with market-ready solutions supported by clinical or pilot data and a viable business model. The AHA is seeking technologies that actively engage patients, support clinicians, and demonstrate measurable potential to improve patient outcomes across diverse care settings. Unlike traditional startup competitions, this program emphasizes clinical validation and alignment with evidence-based care, ensuring that solutions are positioned for real-world adoption.
Key dates for the competition include: applications open now through September 18, 2026; five finalists announced on October 10, 2026; live pitches at Scientific Sessions on November 7–8; and the winner announced on November 9, 2026. The Health Tech Competition is a cornerstone of the Health Innovation Pavilion at Scientific Sessions and reflects the AHA's commitment to accelerating innovation and fostering collaboration to improve cardiovascular and brain health outcomes worldwide.
Interested parties can learn more about the competition and view the terms and conditions at ahahealthtech.org/aha-health-tech-competition-2026. The AHA also provides additional resources, including news releases about previous competitions, such as the Houston-based medical technology company that won the overall global health tech competition at Scientific Sessions 2025, and the finalists named in the global health technology competition to advance heart and brain health. Follow AHA/ASA news on X @HeartNews.
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. With more than 35 million volunteers globally, the organization funds groundbreaking research, advocates for public health, and provides critical resources to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, the AHA works to advance health and transform lives every day. For media inquiries, contact 214-706-1173 or Monica Sales at monica.sales@heart.org. For public inquiries, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit heart.org and stroke.org.
