Illumina Accelerator will collaborate with Helix to support startups building direct-to-consumer genomics products.
Illumina Accelerator, which is accepting applications for its seventh funding cycle, operates six-month programs during which selected startups receive business guidance, seed investment and access to Illumina's software and lab space.
Through the agreement with Helix, a personal genomics company, selected startups will be able to build their products on Helix's next generation sequencing platform and have access to the company's team of leadership experts for guidance related to applied genomics, regulatory affairs and consumer marketing.
"From an entrepreneur’s perspective, cost pressures, stringent regulatory and data security requirements and continually evolving sequencing technologies are barriers to designing, developing, scaling up and commercializing DNA-powered products for everyday life," said Robin Thurston, CEO of Helix.
Applications for Illumina Accelerator's seventh funding cycle are due Sept. 1.