What's Happening?
Fierce Healthcare has announced the opening of nominations for its 2026 Fierce 15 awards, which recognize private healthcare companies that are driving innovation and change within the industry. The Fierce 15,
established in 2019, aims to spotlight companies that are making significant strides in areas such as health technology, artificial intelligence-enabled software, and new care models. The awards celebrate companies that embody the spirit of being 'fierce' by championing innovation and creativity amidst intense competition. Previous winners include notable names like Cityblock Health and Cricket Health. The nominations are open until January 23, 2026, and companies do not need to disclose funding or revenue to be considered.
Why It's Important?
The Fierce 15 awards play a crucial role in highlighting and encouraging innovation within the $4 trillion healthcare industry, which faces challenges such as unsustainable cost trends and barriers to access. By recognizing companies that are pioneering new technologies and care models, the awards help to promote solutions that can address these systemic issues. This recognition can provide a platform for emerging companies to gain visibility and attract investment, thereby accelerating the adoption of innovative practices that can improve patient care and operational efficiency across the healthcare sector.
What's Next?
As the nomination process unfolds, companies across the healthcare industry will be vying for a spot on the prestigious Fierce 15 list. The selection process will likely involve a thorough evaluation of each nominee's impact and potential to drive change within the industry. The announcement of the 2026 honorees will provide insights into the future direction of healthcare innovation and highlight key trends and technologies that are expected to shape the industry in the coming years.
