MedTech Momentum: What the PitchBook Webinar Reveals About the Industry’s Future
Amid a volatile global economic landscape and a challenging venture funding environment, a powerful story of resilience and innovation is unfolding in the MedTech sector. That story took center stage during a recent PitchBook webinar, where experts from across the industry shared a refreshingly optimistic outlook, underpinned by cutting-edge technologies, smart investment strategies, and a shifting regulatory tide.
The panel, moderated by Aaron DeGagne, CFA, Senior Analyst, Healthcare, PitchBook, featured insights from Dr. Dylan Attard (CEO and Cofounder, MedTech World), Ken Nelson (Partner, MedTech Advantage Fund), and Paul Grand (CEO, MedTech Innovator). Their message was clear: despite current headwinds, MedTech is poised for a transformative leap, and investors are starting to take notice.
Wearables, Robotics, and the AI Revolution
“Two areas that are really exciting right now are non-invasive therapeutic wearable devices and multi-parameter vital signs monitoring,” said Ken Nelson. These technologies are gaining traction thanks to their potential to improve chronic disease management and patient outcomes, particularly in areas like diabetes and heart disease.
From a clinical perspective, robotics is another area to watch. “Especially in the next five to ten years, surgical robotics will become a norm for younger surgeons who are more accustomed to tech integration in workflows,” noted Dr. Attard. Robotics isn’t just about precision, it’s about solving healthcare labor shortages and improving operational efficiency.
Artificial intelligence also loomed large in the discussion. “The newer MedTech companies are building both the device and the AI engine to support it,” Nelson added. These hybrid models—AI-enabled medical devices—are not only attracting more capital, but also setting the stage for smarter, more scalable care delivery.
Challenges: Liquidity Crunch and Regulatory Limbo
Despite all the innovation, there’s a stark reality at play: liquidity remains a major constraint for investors and startups alike. “Many investors are sitting on old portfolios—10, even 12 years in,” said Paul Grand. “That just doesn’t fit the structure of a 10-year closed-end fund.”
Moreover, regulatory uncertainty still casts a shadow. But signs of progress are emerging. Grand pointed to new statements from leadership at CMS and the FDA promising a reduction in the time from regulatory approval to payment—a key bottleneck in MedTech commercialization. “If we get back to something like the original Medicare Coverage of Innovative Technology (MCIT) program, that could be a game-changer,” he said.
A Thaw in the Exit Market?
According to Grand, there’s pent-up demand for acquisitions and a growing number of companies that are “M&A ready,” having crossed revenue milestones that would have triggered exits years ago. “If you asked people in January, they were super bullish. Now, maybe a little less—but that enthusiasm is still right under the surface,” he noted.
PitchBook’s data reinforces that sentiment, showing a strong uptick in venture activity in Q1 2025. Nelson added, “You’re starting to see IPO and M&A activity pick up. These funds can’t sit on capital forever—they need to deploy it.”
Global Appetite, Local Adaptation
While funding in the U.S. remains selective, Dr. Attard highlighted growing appetite abroad—especially in the Middle East. “There’s much more money and more openness to early-stage investing,” he said. “At one of our events, a U.S.-based company secured a $2 million investment from a family office she managed to handshake with.”
He also emphasized a rising trend of startups diversifying supply chains and turning to U.S. manufacturers. “Whereas before, cost was the deciding factor, now redundancy and resilience are top of mind,” Nelson observed.
MedTech Innovator: A Window Into What’s Next
If you want a preview of where MedTech is headed, look no further than MedTech Innovator, the global accelerator run by Paul Grand. In 2025, it received over 2,400 applications, selecting just under 5%—a testament to both the competition and the sector’s energy.
Themes emerging this year include continued strength in cardiovascular and neurovascular technologies, rising interest in women’s health, and a cautious but growing push into pediatrics and diagnostics. “Without diagnostics, we can’t do interventions,” Grand reminded the audience. “Yet it remains underfunded relative to its importance.”
An important evolution: AI is no longer the headline—it’s the infrastructure. “It’s not about being an ‘AI company’ anymore. The assumption is you’re using AI. Investors want to know how,” said Grand.
Looking Ahead: Pharma-Like Returns, MedTech Outcomes
For Grand, the next three years could redefine the MedTech playbook. “You’re going to see the MedTech sector producing pharma-like outcomes and pharma-like returns for investors,” he predicted.
The conditions for a breakout are aligning: smarter startups, better-prepared founders, a more sophisticated investor base, and a regulatory environment that—if the trends hold—will enable faster commercialization.
Ready to Lead What’s Next in MedTech?
If you’re a healthtech startup looking to gain visibility, secure funding, or connect with top-tier investors, MedTech Malta 2025 is your gateway to growth. Taking place from 12–14 November, this flagship event brings together global decision-makers across diagnostics, digital health, devices, and therapeutics, all eager to discover the innovations redefining tomorrow’s healthcare landscape.
Whether you’re scaling or just emerging, this is your platform to pitch, network, and gain traction. Register your interest today and take a bold step toward meaningful partnerships and real-world impact. For more details, reach out at [email protected].
