Helioverse Innovations Inc. has been chosen as a recipient of the 13th cohort of “1stRound,” the large-scale university and research-institution co-sponsored startup acceleration program run by the University of Tokyo’s IPC.

The company is advancing development of an ultra-small, catheter-delivered artificial heart that requires no external power cable, together with a fully implantable wireless power system capable of safely supplying high currents inside the body. Helioverse targets the start of clinical trials by 2030.

Through 1stRound’s non-equity funding, business collaboration opportunities, and hands-on expert support, Helioverse will accelerate prototype development, deepen clinical validation, and strengthen manufacturing and regulatory planning as it moves from PoC toward preclinical and clinical stages.

CEO Dr. Taiyo Kuroda commented that the selection reflects the company’s unique combination of Cleveland Clinic-informed clinical and translational R&D, Japanese precision manufacturing partnerships, and a multidisciplinary team of engineers, clinicians, regulatory specialists, and business leaders committed to delivering a safe, driveline-free solution for patients.

Helioverse will use the 1stRound program’s network and resources to accelerate first-unit prototyping and to refine the regulatory roadmap necessary for eventual clinical translation. The company plans to share milestone updates and materials through its press channels as development progresses.

For the original press release and downloadable materials, see: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000004.000170837.html

For the UTokyo IPC announcement about the 13th cohort of 1stRound, see: https://www.utokyo-ipc.co.jp/en/news/2025/10/1stround_13th/