Six pioneering companies supported to date, bringing real-world solutions and addressing critical gaps in care for moms and babies nationwide
ARLINGTON, VA – October 9, 2025 – March of Dimes is celebrating the third anniversary of its Innovation Fund, launched in 2022 to accelerate bold solutions for the nation’s most pressing maternal and infant health challenges. In just three years, the Fund has invested in six pioneering companies tackling urgent issues—from preterm birth and postpartum complications to mental health and access to care—working to transform outcomes for families across the US.
The Innovation Fund is made possible by generous philanthropic contributions from donors committed to improving maternal and infant health. Investments made by the Fund are guided by volunteers on the Investment Committee (Fred Goltz, Emma Goltz, and Dana Martin) and Medical & Science Committee (Dr. George Saade, Dr. Elizabeth Howell, Dr. Irina Burd, Dr. Rashmin Savani, and Dr. Emin Maltepe), ensuring every decision is aligned with March of Dimes’ mission, grounded in clinical expertise, and designed to build a high-impact venture portfolio.
The need for innovation
The United States continues to face a maternal and infant health crisis, with some of the highest rates of maternal mortality and preterm birth among developed countries. Pregnancy complications, systemic inequities, chronic health conditions, and gaps in access to care leave too many families at risk for poor outcomes. Innovation is urgently needed—from new diagnostics and treatments to scalable models of care that can reach every mom and baby.
“The Innovation Fund was born out of necessity,” said Cindy Rahman, President and CEO of March of Dimes. “Too many moms and babies face preventable risks during pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we are supporting entrepreneurs and scientists with bold ideas, delivering real-world solutions that save lives and strengthen families. Three years in, we’re already seeing the impact our investments have made on care delivery and outcomes.”
Innovation in action: Portfolio companies
Since its launch, the Fund has partnered with visionary companies across the maternal and infant health spectrum, including:
- Raydiant Oximetry – developing next-generation technology to monitor fetal oxygenation and address postpartum hemorrhage.
- PyrAmes – developed a non-invasive wearable for continuous blood pressure monitoring, starting with fragile newborns.
- Seven Starling – offering virtual, evidence-based therapy and medication support for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
- Novocuff – advancing a cervical device to help women experiencing preterm premature rupture of membranes.
- Millie – hybrid maternity care through midwifery clinics and a virtual platform, enhancing access in underserved populations.
- Iron Health – building a digital-first solution to extend OB/GYN care by providing integrated primary care, behavioral health, and other services.
Several of our portfolio companies are already on the market, with others continuing to develop their solutions and seeking approval from the Food and Drug Administration.
Driving change together
March of Dimes is not only investing in innovation but also helping lead a broader movement to prioritize maternal and infant health through venture capital and philanthropy. The Innovation Fund collaborates with other impact-driven venture funds, engages March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centers to support innovations with commercial potential, and partners with other nonprofit and government leaders to strengthen the ecosystem of maternal and infant health innovation.
Looking ahead
March of Dimes is continuing to grow the Innovation Fund by investing in companies that are ready to address the most pressing maternal and infant health challenges. March of Dimes invites philanthropists, innovators, and health leaders to join us in this mission. To learn more about the Innovation Fund, its portfolio companies, or to support its efforts, please visit www.marchofdimes.org/innovationfund.
About March of Dimes
March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, education, and advocacy, and provide programs and services so that every family can get the best possible start. Since 1938, we’ve built a successful legacy to support every pregnant person and every family. Visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org for more information. Follow us on social at @marchofdimes.
Contact: Sarah Smith
Email: [email protected]