This article originally appeared on MedTech World’s website on January 14th, 2026, authored by Wara Samar. It is reprinted here with permission.
Grant Engine, a funding strategy firm focused on helping companies secure non-dilutive capital, is hosting curated sessions during JPM 2026, bringing together innovators, government agencies, and investors for a targeted programme on 14 January 2026 running from 12 pm to 5 pm PST, followed by a reception at the Metropolitan Club in San Francisco.
MedTech World interacted with Sam C. Tetlow, Founder & CEO of Grant Engine, to understand how the programme is designed to support companies operating in an increasingly competitive funding environment. Grant Engine works across the full lifecycle of a company, helping clients identify opportunities, engage with funding agencies, and secure federal grants and contracts through its Find, Win, Manage approach.
Creating focus during a crowded JPM Week
As JPM week becomes more congested with overlapping meetings and capital conversations, Grant Engine’s sessions are intended to provide structure and clarity. Tetlow explains that the objective is to help companies move through uncertainty with purpose.
“Supporting clients in navigating through the turbulence with effectiveness and success in our model of Find, Win, Manage through our differentiated approach to win funding,” he says.
Rather than relying on chance encounters, the programme is curated to prioritise meaningful engagement with funding agencies and investors during one of the busiest weeks in the biotech and MedTech calendar.
Why non-dilutive funding matters
While equity financing often dominates JPM discussions, Tetlow highlights the role non-dilutive funding plays in strengthening early stage companies.
“Nondilutive capital is excellent to derisk early stage companies using funds that are not required to sell equity,” he explains.
“This is the most expensive capital of a company’s life and making it nondilutive drives value in ways that no other form of capital can.”
Used strategically, non-dilutive funding complements venture capital and supports long-term value creation without unnecessary dilution.
A more competitive funding landscape in 2026
Compared with previous years, the funding environment in 2026 is far more competitive. Access to agencies such as ARPA-H has become increasingly challenging, placing greater importance on preparation and partnership.
“Much more competitive, and the necessity of having a high quality partner is essential,” Tetlow notes. “Access to funding sources like ARPA-H is increasingly difficult, and we provide that access to our clients and prospective clients.”
This reality directly influenced the structure of Grant Engine’s JPM programme, which focuses on practical engagement rather than high-level overviews.
Understanding the differences between funding agencies
A key session explores funding opportunities across NIH, DoD, ARPA-H, DARPA, and BARDA, addressing what Tetlow sees as a common misconception—that these agencies can be approached in the same way.
“Each one is different and has a unique target they are funding,” he says.
“A secret is to pursue what the funding source wants to invest in.”
He points out that BARDA focuses on civilian first responders and preparedness for pandemics and epidemics, DARPA and ARPA-H are about making “the impossible, probable,” NIH prioritises innovations that save lives and address unmet clinical needs, while the Department of Defense focuses on supporting the warfighter and maintaining an edge in the battle space. Each mission, Tetlow stresses, requires a tailored approach.
Getting closer to ARPA-H decision-makers
One of the highlights of the programme is the expanded ARPA-H fireside chat featuring leaders from the Scalable Solutions Mission Office and two Program Managers. Tetlow emphasises the critical role Program Managers play in turning ambition into execution.
“Much of the success of a program is because a Program Manager makes it happen in concert with performers,” he explains. “They have the vision and the experience to make it happen, so we wanted to get as close to the action as possible.”
Companies that succeed with ARPA-H, he adds, do the fundamentals well. “Engage with the PM and read the solicitation,” Tetlow says, noting that while it sounds simple, it requires significant effort. “The ARPA-H game is very different than NIH grants.”
Practical access through agency presentations
Funding agency presentations form a core part of the day, aimed at lowering barriers for companies engaging with federal funding for the first time or returning for new opportunities.
“We are bringing these funding sources to the front door of companies,” Tetlow says. “Making it easy to meet, easy to engage, and easier to secure funding. It’s a win-win.”
Learning from companies that have won
Client case studies feature companies that have secured more than $5 million in non-dilutive funding with Grant Engine’s support. According to Tetlow, success comes down to readiness and engagement.
“They are ready, and they have engaged with Grant Engine. We provide access and a reliable path to secure funding for our clients,” he says.
He believes companies should prioritise non-dilutive funding early. “Immediately, and through Series C,” Tetlow adds, particularly for dual-use companies where defence agencies may ultimately become major customers.
Bridging non-dilutive and venture capital
A new addition to the programme is the Venture Investor Reverse Pitch, where investors and strategics outline what they are actively looking to fund. Tetlow explains that while Grant Engine has refined its approach to non-dilutive funding, equity capital remains essential.
“At some point you need to raise equity, and we wanted to engage investors on behalf of our clients and make it easier to secure venture funding,” he says.
Founders, he notes, often overlook one key factor. “Path to an exit. Begin thinking and formulating an exit strategy from day one. Liquidity is the name of the game.”
Turning conversations into outcomes
One-on-one meetings are designed to go beyond traditional networking. Structured and double opt-in, they are intended to create productive discussions rather than relying on chance.
“Networking is great, but it relies on serendipity. We bring that serendipity to the process to facilitate clients and funding sources to drive outcomes for Find, Win, Manage,” Tetlow explains.
Beyond grant writing
Tetlow describes Grant Engine as more than a grant-writing firm. “Grant Engine wins federally funded grants and contracts at a rate two to four times higher than the national average,” he says, attributing this to a deep understanding of products, differentiation, and rigorous review processes.
Success at JPM 2026, he adds, is ultimately measured by outcomes.
“Helping our clients get closer to funding and supporting the very best companies get the maximum amount of funding. When our clients win, we win.”
Looking ahead, Tetlow sees non-dilutive funding continuing to play a defining role in company growth. “There are clear benefits to pursuing nondilutive funding, and Grant Engine is the key to accessing it,” he concludes.