The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) has announced $110 million in funding for 23 projects targeting critical issues in women’s health. The awards, part of the Sprint for Women’s Health initiative, were revealed by First Lady Jill Biden during her keynote at the HLTH 2024 conference in Las Vegas.
The recipients include startups, global innovators, and universities addressing conditions such as cancer, ovarian health, menopause, endometriosis, and cardiovascular disease. Notable projects include Gameto’s novel ovarian therapy and Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s at-home medication for preterm labor. The selection focused on “high-impact and novel approaches,” according to ARPA-H.
“ARPA-H is de-risking investments in big ideas so answers can reach the women who need them,” Biden said, highlighting the potential of the women’s health market, projected to grow from $9 billion to $29 billion by 2029.
The 23 awardees are split into two tracks: Spark, for early-stage research, and Launchpad, focused on later-stage development to bring solutions to market within two years. With over 1,700 applications submitted across 45 states and 34 countries, this initiative reflects growing momentum in women’s health innovation. Notably, 70% of the recipients are women-led.
Biden urged investors and researchers to prioritize women’s health. “These conversations need to be in your proposals, labs, and pitch decks. What will you do to keep this momentum unstoppable?” she asked.
