Everything you need to know about applying to Rock Health

Allright folks, here’s the scoop:

Applications open October 1st  and close November 14th. It’s all online, and the questions are straight forward.  If you want to go the extra mile, add some multimedia flair by creating a video or deck. Please post them online and link to them.

By December 1st, we’ll be extending interview invitations to semi-finalists.  Interviews take place in San Francisco or via skype, and are conducted by our partners, advisors, and current entrepreneurs.

When does the program start and end?
Our next group of entrepreneurs will move into the Rock Health office in the middle of January and demo day will be in the middle of June.

It’s selective. Not because we want it to be, but because we have limited funds and space.  Last term we had 350 applications for 10 spots.  If you’re a billionaire, please consider making a huge donation so we can support more startups.

What sorts of ideas and people do you accept?
We’re looking for clever, product-centric ideas that solve problems in health care from the outside in.  Products can be in the form of web or mobile apps, and should be early stage and pre-VC funding.

No experience in the health space? No worries. We’ve built a program to give you resources and connections in the sector. And our friends at the Mayo Clinic Center for Innovation, Harvard Medical School, UCSF, and Cincinnati Childrens Hospital are excited to help you out.

How do you choose which startups to accept into the program?
Our judges evaluate applicants based on the team, the idea, and the thoughtfulness of the application.  Your application will be judged by a mix of health experts and investors.

Can I apply as a single founder?
We prefer diverse teams of 2-3 founders. Startups are a lot of work.

What is life like over there?
Ryan, an entrepreneur from our first batch of startups, gives a great overview here.  Read more it right from the horse’s mouth.

What exactly does Rock Health provide?
Everything you need to launch your startup: money, mentors, office space, supportive community and all that jazz. Check out our program page for details.

How much money are we talking about?
We’ll give your team a $20,000 grant to help cover rent and ramen.  And during your time at Rock Health, we’ll help connect you with the right investors to get real funding.

How much equity does Rock Health take?
Nada. Think of the $20K as a gift for being awesome.

What does Rock Health get out of this?
Rock Health is a 501(c)3 non-profit with the mission of accelerating the funding and growth of high potential entrepreneurs in health.

Who’s behind this?
See our growing list of amazing partners.

Do we have to be in San Francisco the entire time?
Yes. Being with us full time is crucial to your experience, and we think you’ll love it here.  If you’re new to the area, we’ll help you find affordable digs.

But I’m awesome! Will you make an exception for me?
Sorry. Only teams working full-time from Rock Health HQ in San Francisco can take advantage of the entire program (workshops, office-hours, and guest speakers). We’re doing more than writing checks, we’re creating a community of like-minded individuals. Being present is part of the deal.

How can I get involved if I do not qualify for the full program?
For teams that do not meet the program criteria, we offer select case-by-case admissions to our Members Program.  Rock Health members get access to all of the above offerings, except grant money and full-time office space.  The Members Program is ideal for single founders, teams that have already received funding, or teams that can’t commit to full-time residency.


Still have questions? Send them to info@rockhealth.org