11 Life Sciences Startups Selected for National Accelerator Program

Eight of the companies in the latest Drive cohorts are based in Massachusetts.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:08pm

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Eleven early-stage life sciences startups have been selected for the latest cohorts of the Drive accelerator program, which is run by Massachusetts trade association MassBio and partner SCbio in South Carolina. The companies, which have collectively raised $290 million in funding since Drive launched in 2022, will participate in an eight-week curriculum and receive mentorship from industry experts.

Why it matters

The Drive program aims to propel breakthrough science from early-stage companies while equipping founders with tools for long-term success. The latest cohorts reflect emerging trends in drug development, including next-generation biologics, RNA medicines, and a renewed focus on cardiovascular disease.

The details

Of the 11 startups selected, 8 have locations in Massachusetts. The companies must have received less than $1.5 million in equity-based funding when applying and own or have licensed the intellectual property for their science or technology. The free eight-week program features industry-specific curriculum, weekly mentorship sessions, and in-person demo days in Boston and Charleston.

  • The new cohorts were announced on March 31, 2026.
  • Drive has supported 59 early-stage companies since launching in 2022.

The players

MassBio

A Massachusetts trade association that will oversee the biotech group of five companies in the latest Drive cohorts.

SCbio

An economic development organization in South Carolina that will lead the biomarkers and diagnostics cohort of six companies.

Kendalle Burlin O'Connell

The CEO and President of MassBio.

James Chappell

The President and CEO of SCbio.

ADA Forsyth Institute

A nonprofit research organization in Somerville, Massachusetts, that will provide a sponsored lab bench for one year to a Drive program graduate.

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What they’re saying

“The science in this cohort reflects where drug development is headed: next-generation biologics, RNA medicines, precision-targeted ADCs, and a renewed focus on cardiovascular disease that the field has too long underinvested in.”

— Kendalle Burlin O'Connell, CEO and President, MassBio

“Drive will give this cohort of diagnostic and biomarker companies the chance to experience the infrastructure, talent, and partnerships that South Carolina offers to accelerate real-world impact.”

— James Chappell, President and CEO, SCbio

What’s next

One Drive graduate will receive a sponsored lab bench for one year at the ADA Forsyth Institute's facility in Somerville, Massachusetts.

The takeaway

The latest Drive cohorts highlight the program's role in supporting early-stage life sciences startups and propelling innovative science, even as the broader funding environment remains challenging. The program's focus on equipping founders with tools for long-term success could help these companies navigate the complex landscape of drug development.