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.

#Let’sBuildSomethingBetterTogether