Hatch, Baldwin County's technology village and entrepreneurial support hub based in Fairhope, proudly announced its strategic move into the field of medical technology (medtech) with the unveiling of the Hatch "Powered by Bessel" accelerator program according to a news release.

Designed to foster breakthrough healthcare innovations, the Hatch "Powered by Bessel" accelerator program marks a significant milestone for Hatch. This transformative 10-week program, developed in partnership with Bessel, an impact accelerator specializing in medtech startups, leverages design thinking, agile teamwork and medical device development expertise.

The program, set to be held in Fairhope, will offer a comprehensive curriculum comprising in-person events, expert mentorship from industry veterans and specialized workshops and consulting according to the details of the release. The release went further to say that articipating medtech startups will benefit from tools, stipends for travel expenses and funding opportunities, including equity stakes and pitching sessions to potential investors on demo day.

Keith Glines, experience architect and creative director of Hatch, emphasized the significance of the partnership with Bessel in entering the medtech arena.

"Hatch benefits from several local partnerships, and now we can enter the medtech arena through our partnership with Bessel," Glines said in the release. "Baldwin County is such an innovation-rich ecosystem. The vibrant economy, job growth, and access to significant medical and academic resources position Hatch 'Powered by Bessel' for success."

The debut of the Hatch "Powered by Bessel" accelerator program will took place at the Life Science Intelligence (LSI) USA Conference in Dana Point, California, from March 18-22. The event in the medtech industry provided a platform for Hatch to showcase its initiatives to leading firms, innovators, startups and industry influencers.

Hatch, a business hub providing facilities and resources for technology-based entrepreneurs in Baldwin County, is funded by Coastal Alabama Community College, The City of Fairhope and the Baldwin Community + Economic Development Foundation (BCEDF). As a member of the Innovate Alabama Network, BCEDF positions Hatch as a leader in nurturing Alabama's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Hatch's new home at the former Fairhope K-1 Center in downtown Fairhope, currently under construction, is expected to be operational in 2026.

For more information, visit HatchFairhope.com.