Merck Digital Sciences Studio

Merck Digital Sciences Studio (MDSS) is a startup accelerator program focused on supporting and investing in early-stage companies developing innovative digital technologies for drug discovery and development. It is a collaboration between Merck, the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII), Merck Global Health Innovation Fund, Northpond Ventures, and McKesson Ventures, with technology support from Microsoft for Startups. The studio provides mentorship, training, and direct investment to startups, with a focus on those utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). The program operates cohorts in the US and Canada, offering funding via SAFE agreements to participating companies.