$1.75m joint venture to accelerate breakthrough tech for neurological conditions

A new $1.75 million joint venture will fund and scale breakthrough technologies designed to transform the lives of people living with neurological conditions.

The programme, a collaboration between Australian disability services provider MSWA and Founders Factory, will back and fast-track global startups developing cutting-edge solutions, including the use of AI, robotics and wearables that address conditions including multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, motor neuron disease (MND), acquired brain injury and other neurological conditions.

Startups will receive investment and intensive support from Founders Factory to help move from concept to real-world application for people living with MS.

Founders Factory’s third startup programme in Western Australia (WA), following last year’s launch of their programs with Rio Tinto (investing in mining-tech startups) and the Government of Western Australia (investing in nature-tech startups).

MSWA CEO Melanie Kiely said that this initiative not only strengthens the impact that MSWA can create for people with neurological conditions in WA and across the nation but positions the nonprofit to contribute globally.

Kiely said: “MSWA has long been a champion of neurological research, investing more than $47 million in the past decade alone.

“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.”

The launch announcement was endorsed and attended by Premier Roger Cook, with the Premier praising the partnership as a key driver for innovation and growth in the state.

He said: “My government is ensuring all Western Australians can access the healthcare they need, when they need it.

“WA leads the nation for prevention and care in the neurological community, and this partnership is a great example of what our State does best.

“This is a commitment that will ensure WA remains a nation leader in the field and support the wellbeing of all Western Australians.”

Science and 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 start-ups, which is putting us on the map as a place that welcomes innovative ideas to equip our State for future technologies and opportunities.

“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.

“The Cook Government is continuing the work for WA to be key player in the medical research sector.

“Through our Future Health Research and Innovation Fund programs, we are sowing the seeds for a flourishing medical research environment that we can benefit from now and for generations to come.”

MSWA Client, Nicolette Murphy, said that she’s excited to see the impact of MSWA grow beyond Australian shores.

“After moving to Australia from London 20 years ago, I feel grateful every day to live in a place where world-class support and treatment is available.

“It’s inspiring to consider how innovative solutions could transform the lives of people like me who are living with a neurological condition.

“It’s empowering to know that brilliant minds are working alongside us to help us live our best lives.”

Rohan Silva, Chair of Western Australia, Founders Factory added: “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.

“Founders Factory is proud to be tripling down on WA with our third startup program here and we’re thrilled to be supporting innovation in this incredible state.”

Startups can apply now via Founders Factory’s platform.

Applications will close at the end of January 2026.