Healthcare Business Strategy and New Venture Design

Overview

This course is designed for students aspiring to lead and innovate in the healthcare sector, providing them with the essential strategy and business skills necessary to launch, manage, and grow successful new ventures. Students will gain a deeper understanding of strategic considerations through analysis of external factors shaping the healthcare industry and learn how to develop and implement sustainable business models to create and capture value. The course will also cover key elements of developing a robust business plan, building and managing a new venture team, examining various financing options, and engaging with potential investors within the healthcare ecosystem.

Syllabus

Course Introduction and Module 1: Market Analysis and Validation in Healthcare Ventures

This module introduces the foundations of healthcare entrepreneurship and the process of analyzing opportunities in the healthcare market. You will learn how to apply human-centered design, stakeholder analysis, and industry frameworks to define viable business opportunities grounded in evidence and impact.

Module 2: Healthcare Startup Team Formation and Leadership

This module explores how successful healthcare startups build and lead high-performing teams capable of navigating clinical, technical, and business challenges. You will learn how to form complementary founding teams, foster mission-driven cultures, and lead through the regulatory constraints and complexity that are unique to healthcare ventures.

Module 3: Healthcare Business Models and Product Development

This module examines how healthcare entrepreneurs design, test, and refine business models and products that balance clinical value, operational feasibility, and financial sustainability. We will explore frameworks for business model innovation, Lean Startup methodology, product development, pricing, and go-to-market strategies within healthcare’s unique ecosystem.

Module 4: Financing, Legal Considerations, and Pitching to Investors

This module explores how healthcare entrepreneurs secure funding, structure deals, and navigate the legal foundations necessary for sustainable growth. You will learn to plan fundraising rounds, evaluate valuation methods, understand regulatory and intellectual property (IP) considerations, and craft investor pitches that communicate both business value and healthcare impact.