Collaborative Innovations: Navigating Digital Health Fundraising with Lee Shapiro of 7wire Ventures

Jul 1, 2025

Lee Shapiro, managing partner at 7wire Ventures and former CFO of Livongo, shares invaluable insights on navigating the current digital health investment landscape. He emphasizes ROI's critical role in healthcare offerings and discusses strategies for startups to secure funding despite economic challenges. Shapiro also addresses the complexities of engaging with the FDA regarding digital therapeutics and the importance of long-term thinking in health innovations. Join him for guidance on building sustainable business models and thriving in the evolving digital health sector.

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INSIGHT

Healthcare Funding Challenges 2025

The healthcare funding environment remains uncertain with a closed IPO market in 2025 and cautious capital deployment.
Cost pressures on health systems and policy uncertainties challenge startups but also create opportunities to reduce waste and improve care.

ADVICE

Focus on Profitable Scalable Models

Build profitable, scalable business models that show clear customer ROI, ideally 2-3x savings.
Demonstrate great patient experience and objectively improved outcomes to attract investment and customers.

ANECDOTE

Folks Health Care Growth Story

Folks Health serves the LGBTQIA+ community with culturally sensitive care, avoiding government payer issues by not billing Medicare or Medicaid.
Their growth is fueled by community trust and privacy despite policy headwinds.

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Healthcare Investment Landscape: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

On this episode of StartUp Health NOW, dive into a compelling conversation with Lee Shapiro, managing partner of 7wire Ventures, as he unravels the complexities of digital health investment in today’s challenging market. Discover how successful healthcare startups are adapting to a landscape marked by IPO stagnation and reduced funding streams.

In this interactive Fireside Chat with members of the StartUp Health community, Shapiro generously shares his wisdom and answers real-world questions from participants.

Key highlights include:

The critical importance of demonstrating ROI in healthcare offerings
Strategies for founders to secure funding in a tight market
The vital role of scientific evidence in business strategies
The importance of long-term thinking in achieving health moonshots

The discussion offers valuable insights into how entrepreneurs can thrive despite economic uncertainties and regulatory challenges. From leveraging strategic investors to building sustainable business models, learn how innovative companies are reshaping healthcare delivery.

Want to understand how to navigate the evolving healthcare investment landscape and build successful partnerships in digital health? Listen to this interactive episode for actionable insights from industry veterans.

Do you want to participate in live conversations with industry luminaries? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Fireside Chats, Expert Office Hours, and Peer Circles are benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To get involved, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit.
» Learn more and apply today.

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