Tech accelerator Founders Factory is launching a third startup program in Western Australia after forging a partnership with local multiple sclerosis non-profit, MSWA.
The $1.75 million joint venture will fund and scale startups building technologies to help people living with neurological conditions such as MS, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, motor neuron disease (MND) and acquired brain injury.
The program will back and fast-track global startups developing cutting-edge solutions, including the use of AI, robotics and wearables. The startups will score investment and intensive support from Founders Factory to help move from concept to real-world application for people living with MS.
Founders Factory already invests in mining-tech startups in a partnership with Rio Tinto, and nature-tech startups, supported by the WA government.
MSWA CEO Melanie Kiely said the initiative has the potential for global impact.
“MSWA has long been a champion of neurological research, investing more than $47 million in the past decade alone,” she said.
“As the third partner to join Founders Factory in Western Australia, MSWA is proud to play a pivotal role in bolstering our state’s rapidly growing technology ecosystem. This new innovation strategy marks a bold step forward – transforming cutting-edge research into tangible outcomes for our clients and the wider neuro community.”
WA science, innovation and medical research minister Stephen Dawson said the partnership could pave the way for significant medical breakthroughs.
“We know Founders Factory is investing in a range of WA startups, which is putting us on the map as a place that welcomes innovative ideas to equip our State for future technologies and opportunities.,” he said.
“This partnership with MSWA is set to do just that, tapping into the potential of new technologies to find ways in which we can improve the lives of people living with neurological conditions and their caregivers.
Founders Factory WA chair Rohan Silva said: “This is the world’s first startup program focused on multiple sclerosis and neurological conditions – and it’s awesome that’s happening in Western Australia”.
Over the past decade since it began Founders Factory’s 400+ portfolio companies globally have raised more $4 billion in investment.
Startups can apply now via Founders Factory. Applications close at the end of January 2026.
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