Austin's healthcare sector is anchored by major hospital systems (Ascension Seton, St. David's, Baylor Scott & White), Dell Medical School at UT Austin, and a growing health technology startup community. Healthcare businesses in Austin can access federal health programs, state grants, and local resources specific to the Central Texas region.
Federal Healthcare Programs
- HRSA grants: Funding for community health centers and practices serving underserved populations in Austin and Travis County
- NHSC loan repayment: Up to $50,000 for healthcare providers practicing in Health Professional Shortage Areas within the Austin metro
- SBIR/STTR (NIH): R&D grants for Austin health technology companies. NIH SBIR guide.
- R&D tax credits: For healthcare technology and product development. R&D guide.
State Programs
- CPRIT: Cancer research and product development awards. CPRIT guide.
- Skills Development Fund: Workforce training for healthcare staff. SDF for healthcare.
- HUB certification: For women-owned and minority-owned healthcare businesses seeking state contracts. HUB guide.
Austin-Specific Resources
- Dell Medical School/UT Austin Health Ecosystem: Partnership opportunities, clinical research collaborations, and technology transfer for health startups
- Capital Factory Health Track: Austin's largest accelerator has specific programming for health technology companies
- Central Health: Travis County's healthcare district, which funds community health programs and may partner with private healthcare providers
- PeopleFund: Austin-based CDFI providing microloans and small business lending to healthcare businesses
SBA Lending
- SBA 7(a): For practice acquisition and working capital. SBA 7(a) guide.
- SBA 504: For medical facility purchases and major equipment. SBA 504 guide.
Bottom Line
Austin's healthcare ecosystem benefits from the Dell Medical School, strong health tech startup infrastructure, and access to federal and state healthcare funding programs. Healthcare businesses in Austin can layer HRSA grants, NIH SBIR funding, CPRIT awards, and SBA lending to fund operations, expansion, and innovation.
Not sure which programs may fit your Austin healthcare business? Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs — grants, tax credits, loans, and incentives — and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →