Got an idea? Or maybe just a hunch?
Whether you’ve already scribbled out a startup idea or you’re just curious about solving big problems in healthcare, Catalyst at Distillery Labs is your fast-track to turning “maybe” into momentum.
We’re calling all builders, brainstormers, dreamers, and doers with a passion for MedTech, HealthTech, and healthcare innovation. Catalyst is where bold ideas meet real-world guidance, expert mentorship, and the startup tools you need to launch smarter, faster, and stronger.
What Is Catalyst?
Catalyst is a 4-week, in-person launch pad program designed for early-stage and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to validate, structure, or formalize a business idea in the healthcare and medical space.
Built around the Business Model Canvas, you’ll go from “I think I have an idea” to “I’m ready to pitch this.” You’ll test your assumptions, define your audience, understand your competitors, and learn how to stand up a business the right way—from state registration to storytelling.
Oh, and did we mention? When you finish Catalyst, you’ll have everything you need to apply for the $5,000 “Start A Business GP” grant from Peoria County.
Who It’s For
This program is for you if:
You’ve got a business idea related to MedTech, HealthTech, or healthcare software—even if it’s just in your head.
You’re exploring problems in telehealth, mental health apps, medical devices, AI in healthcare, or anything in the care space.
You’re ready to test your idea with real customers and create something that makes a difference.
You want to join a vibrant community of founders, mentors, and innovation leaders in Greater Peoria.
What You’ll Walk Away With
By the end of Catalyst, you’ll have:
A validated Business Model Canvas
Clear customer personas and a killer value proposition
A competitive landscape analysis to understand where you fit
A roadmap with next steps and startup resources
A 5-minute investor pitch deck you’ll actually be proud to use
Real-time mentor feedback and connections
Grant eligibility through the Start A Business GP program
A pathway into advanced programs like Crucible or gBETA
Program Logistics
Next Cohort Launches: September 29, 2025
Application Opens: July 10, 2025
Deadline: August 20, 2025 — or when the cohort fills up (and trust us, it will)
Schedule: Tuesday & Thursday evenings (3 hours per night)
Location: Distillery Labs, 201 SW Adams St, Peoria, IL
Cost: Just $50 (needs-based scholarships available)
What You’ll Learn – Weekly Breakdown
Week 1: Foundations & Your “Why”
Intro to the Business Model Canvas
Peoria’s MedTech/HealthTech landscape
Start A Business GP: Civic resources & startup support
Week 2: Know Your Customer
Customer discovery & value propositions
Market research & competitor analysis
Startup basics: business licenses, insurance, EIN
Week 3: Building & Funding It Right
Revenue models in healthcare
Funding pathways for early-stage health ventures
Financial planning, branding, and online presence
Week 4: Pitch, Polish, & Propel
Building a powerful pitch deck
Mentor sessions & networking
Next-step planning: Crucible, gBETA, and beyond
Real Support, Real People
You won’t be doing this alone. Catalyst connects you with:
Experienced mentors & MedTech pros
Start A Business GP-approved mentors
Peer founders building alongside you
Sector experts guiding each session
Ready to Start?
[APPLY NOW – Applications open July 10]
Spots are limited, and this cohort will fill up fast. Don’t wait until you’ve perfected your idea—Catalyst is where you do that.
Whether you're trying to fix what’s broken in healthcare or dreaming up something that’s never been done—Catalyst is where it starts.