Success Starts Early: Tips for Building a Thriving Medtech Startup

The medical device industry is not for the faint of heart; it’s one of fierce competition and intricate complexity. Nevertheless, certain strategies can position your startup on a path toward success.

As the co-founder and CEO of FastWave Medical and founder of Medsider, I’ve had the rare and enviable opportunity to interview some of the medical device industry’s most impactful leaders about the keys to building a robust startup.

 Delve into my top takeaways and arm your venture with wisdom from those who've walked the path before.

Robust quality management sets you up for success.

Will Martin, CEO of IRRAS, has spent decades in the medtech arena in various strategic roles at Boston Scientific, Access Closure, and Hotspur Technologies.

 He advocates for rigorous quality management as a cornerstone for future merger and acquisition (M&A) opportunities. A firm focus on audit readiness and comprehensive quality management systems can spell the difference between triumph and downfall.

Align interests to foster growth.

As the CEO of Alio, David Kuraguntla is making strides in kidney health innovation.

 Dave’s key strategy is aligning the interests of the "4Ps" - patient, physician, product, and provider. By delivering value to every key stakeholder and fostering a united team, you set the tone for success and prevent any party from feeling undervalued.

Secure funding that fuels your vision.

With more than 30 years in the medtech industry, ICHOR Vascular Co-Founder and CEO Tim Blair has practically done it all, from sales and marketing to strategy and development. Today, Tim is leading ICHOR on its quest to treat thrombus in the peripheral vascular system using an endovascular technique, which is significantly less invasive than traditional methods.

 Tim advocates for maintaining a minimum investment threshold when making deals with investors so that you attract more sophisticated parties instead of small players. This approach reduces administrative burden and attracts high-net-worth individuals who can provide significant capital.

Tackle big issues early on. 

Steve Dimmer is the former CEO of CurvaFix and has logged decades in the medical device arena, in startups, and at large multinationals. He led CurvaFix through their recent round of financing as their team works to treat high-impact trauma and fragility fractures of the pelvis using the minimally invasive CurvaFix IM Implant, rather than conventional screws and plates.

 Steve’s strategy is to go for the Achilles’ heel early before investing too much time and resources in a product. It’s crucial to make sure that the problem you’re solving has a large enough market to justify the investment and effort. Grappling with these issues early saves time down the line, limits back and forth with regulatory bodies like FDA, and helps your startup stand out in a crowded market.

Forge your own path to regulatory clearance.

Ohad Arazi is the CEO of Clarius, a company producing accurate, easy-to-use, and affordable ultrasound tools. Ohad brings an impressive technology background to the table, working with the Israeli military and industry leaders like McKesson, Telus, and Zebra Medical.

 He encourages entrepreneurs to carve out their path, even when it’s not completely clear. By demonstrating the clinical value of your product, you will eventually navigate the regulatory landscape successfully.

Key lessons from successful medtech startup leaders.

In summary, here are my key takeaways from these proven medical device entrepreneurs: