Mainstream Medical Devices: Innovating Healthcare and Transforming Communities

By ICIC | January 27, 2025

Since its founding in 2018, Mainstream Medical Devices has been on a mission to revolutionize healthcare by bridging the gap between innovation and accessibility. Specializing in contract manufacturing, packaging, and single-use medical instruments, Mainstream empowers startups and mid-sized companies to bring their medical devices to market quickly and affordably—helping to solve real challenges for the healthcare community.

But at Mainstream, the impact goes far beyond business. It’s about creating safer outcomes for patients, supporting its community in Austin, Texas, and fostering a company culture that puts people first.

A Catalyst for Change in Healthcare

The idea for Mainstream Medical Devices came from a need that Dana Wilcox and Aaron Bailey, co-founders of the company, couldn’t ignore. Smaller medical device companies were struggling to launch products due to the high costs and complexities of getting to market. Larger corporations prioritized big hospital contracts, leaving startups with limited options. Dana and Aaron saw an opportunity to offer a solution: a streamlined, cost-effective path for these companies to bring their innovative products to life.

“There’s so much science and testing involved in ensuring devices are clean, sterile, and safe for patients,” Aaron explains. “We provide the expertise and simplify the process for our customers, so they can focus on innovation.”

With a deep commitment to quality, Mainstream’s disposable instruments reduce surgical site infections by up to 50%—an achievement that speaks to their dedication to safety and patient care.

Investing in People

At Mainstream, the driving force behind every success is the people. From building a team that shares a passion for problem-solving to offering internships that inspire the next generation of medical device professionals, Mainstream fosters an environment where collaboration and innovation thrive.

“Our leadership values work ethic and responsibility,” says Lauren Thompson, a member of the team. “If someone has the right attitude and skill set, we’re eager to teach them everything they need to succeed.”

For employees like Casey Atkins, Mainstream stands out because of its people-focused culture. “Coming from a large organization, I felt like just another employee,” Casey shares. “At Mainstream, it feels like a partnership. When someone asks how you’re doing, they truly mean it.”

The company’s culture extends beyond the office. Employee appreciation events, like chili cook-offs and themed celebrations, bring the team together in fun and meaningful ways.

Making a Difference in the Community

Mainstream Medical Devices is also committed to giving back. Through initiatives like their annual Team Community Workday, the company partners with organizations like the Central Texas Food Bank to provide meals to neighbors in need. This year alone, the team helped prepare more than 8,300 meals for families in the Austin area.

Their support doesn’t stop there. From partnering with MD Anderson’s Children’s Art Project to helping children with cancer and their families, to long-term involvement with SpineHope—a nonprofit providing advanced spine treatment to underserved communities worldwide—Mainstream’s dedication to service is woven into the fabric of its mission. “We love seeing the impact our work has, not just in healthcare, but in people’s lives,” Dana reflects. “It’s an honor to be part of this community and to give back in ways that truly matter.”

Looking Ahead

Mainstream Medical Devices is more than a company; it’s a community of innovators, caregivers, and changemakers. In 2024, Mainstream earned the prestigious Business Growth Award, which annually recognizes the fastest-growing business on the Inner City 100 (IC100) Awards list, for its impressive revenue growth of nearly 9,500% between 2019 and 2023. Recognized as part of the IC100 family of companies, Mainstream is proud of its impact so far and excited for the future.

“Our growth has been incredible because we’re truly helping people,” says Aaron. “It’s fulfilling to see how our work creates a ripple effect—helping patients, empowering businesses, and strengthening our community.”

From revolutionizing medical device manufacturing to transforming lives in Austin and beyond, Mainstream Medical Devices proves that with the right mission and the right people, anything is possible. 

About the IC100 Awards

Since 1999, ICIC has identified and honored the 100 fastest-growing businesses located in under-resourced communities through the prestigious Inner City 100 (IC100) awards. Throughout this period, ICIC has had the privilege of learning about and highlighting more than 1,000 remarkable business leaders and companies from across the United States. These firms have proven to be catalysts for job growth and promoters of a thriving, inclusive economy, even amidst challenging circumstances. Furthermore, they have actively contributed to the enhancement of their communities by generously donating their time and resources to local organizations and charitable causes.

Learn more about the IC100 Awards and eligibility criteria for this year’s list at icic.org/ic100.