The Challenge

MatchPlay, in collaboration with the DisAbled Life Alliance, aims to restore motor functionality and prevent secondary complications for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI), paraplegia, and related conditions. To achieve this, we are inviting proposals from well-qualified startups to develop or research innovative solutions that can enhance the quality of life for these individuals.

Program Objectives

The Challenge is to develop or research a solution that restores motor functionality and prevents secondary complications for individuals with spinal cord injuries. The proposed solution should have the following characteristics:

• Restoring Motor Function: Enable individuals with SCI or paraplegia to regain movement and enhance their quality of life.

OR

• Prevent Secondary Complications: Prevent or minimize problems like muscle atrophy, pressure sores, bladder dysfunction, and infections that arise from immobility.
• Accessibility and Scalability: Ensure the solution is accessible, cost-effective, and scalable to serve diverse populations.
• Preference for Minimally Invasive Alternatives: Provide non-surgical or minimally invasive alternatives to spinal disk fusion or other invasive procedures.

Application and Program Timeline

Applications for MatchPlay's 2025 Challenge open on May 1st, 2025!

• Pre-Application Deadline - April 30th
• Full Application Deadline - May 19th
• Startup Selection - May 23rd
• Program Launch - June 2nd
• Showcase - Week of September 19th

Scope of Work

During the 3-month program, selected startups will be responsible for:

• Developing a Feasibility Plan: Create a detailed roadmap outlining the development and validation of the proposed solution.
• Preliminary Testing and Validation: Conduct initial proof-of-concept studies to demonstrate the potential effectiveness of the solution.
• Regulatory and Clinical Strategy: Develop a plan to navigate regulatory approvals and prepare for clinical trials.
• Training and Deployment Strategy: Establish a plan for training clinicians, caregivers, and end-users on how to use the product effectively.
• Future Development and Support Plan: Define a strategy for ongoing product development, deployment, and long-term maintenance.

Current Roadblocks and Barriers to Success

• Complexity of Spinal Cord Injuries: The intricate nature of SCI poses challenges for effective treatment and recovery.
• Limited Non-Surgical Alternatives: Many existing solutions are invasive and may not be suitable for all patients.
• Scalability and Affordability Challenges: Developing solutions that are both scalable and affordable for widespread adoption is difficult.

Selection Metrics and Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Innovative Potential: Novelty and feasibility of the proposed solution.
• Clinical and Technical Validation: Demonstrated evidence or a strong plan for proof-of-concept and validation.
• Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness: Ability to scale while maintaining affordability for end-users.
• Non-Invasiveness and Safety: Preference for solutions that minimize surgical interventions and reduce patient risk.
• Technical Expertise: The startup’s experience in developing technologies or therapies for SCI patients.
• Timeline and Budget Feasibility: Capacity to meet the program objectives within the proposed timeline and budget.
• Future Development and Support: A well-defined plan for ongoing product development and long-term support.

Submission Requirements

• Proposals should be submitted using the "Apply Here" link below.
• Proposals should include the following:
• • Cover Letter: Summarizing the startup’s expertise and experience in developing solutions for spinal cord injuries.
  • Detailed Proposal: Describing the solution, including research methodologies, anticipated outcomes, and validation plans.
  • Timeline and Budget Plan: A clear project timeline and budget to meet program goals.
  • Future Development and Support Plan: A strategy for long-term product development, deployment, and maintenance.

Funding

• Up to $10,000 during the program to support product and business development and feasibility testing on pre-approved service providers.
• Investment Opportunity: Selected companies will have the opportunity to present to investors and potentially receive $50,000+ in funding post-Challenge.

Contact Information

Fernando Moreno
Program Director
fernando@matchplaygroup.com

About MatchPlay

MatchPlay is a syndicate of funds that conducts due diligence, navigates founders, and matches them to the right investors at the right time. Acting as trusted caddies, our team will stand side-by-side with founders to guide them through the challenging fairways of startup success. With transparency and community in mind, our goal is to match founders to the right resources around the world, ensuring they have the perfect swing to drive their startup to new heights.

About disAbled Life Alliance

disAbled Life Alliance is a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by advancing innovative solutions that address their unique challenges. We support the development and deployment of transformative technologies and therapies, particularly in areas where traditional market forces fail to meet critical needs. Our current focus includes enhancing mobility, restoring functionality, and preventing secondary complications for individuals with spinal cord injuries and related conditions.