HITIQ has made significant strides in expanding its concussion management technology, PROTEQT©, into North America and Australian retail, backed by strong research partnerships and a successful capital raise.
- Exclusive Canadian distribution deal opens North American market
- National retail rollout begins with Rebel in Australia
- Major Australian Research Council brain injury study inclusion
- World-first insurance integration partnership with Sportscover
- Oversubscribed $925,000 capital raise strengthens balance sheet
North American Expansion and Retail Breakthrough
HITIQ Limited (ASX – HIQ) has taken a decisive step towards global commercialisation of its PROTEQT© concussion management platform with the launch of its North American market strategy. The company secured an exclusive Canadian distribution partnership, providing immediate access to one of the largest collision-sport markets worldwide and establishing a scalable entry point into the United States. This move is complemented by ongoing collegiate research collaborations, including a new partnership with Smith College Women’s Rugby, which supports validation in female athlete cohorts, a segment experiencing rapid growth.
Domestically, HITIQ marked a major milestone by commencing national retail distribution through Rebel, Australia’s leading sporting goods retailer. PROTEQT© products will be available in Rebel stores starting February 2026, significantly enhancing brand visibility and accessibility to grassroots athletes ahead of the new sporting season.
Research Validation and Strategic Partnerships
Scientific credibility remains a cornerstone of HITIQ’s strategy, with PROTEQT© selected for inclusion in a prestigious Australian Research Council-funded brain injury research program. This endorsement not only reinforces HITIQ’s leadership in concussion monitoring but also promises revenue inflows in the third quarter of FY26. The company’s research footprint in the US collegiate sports sector further bolsters its evidence base and market credibility.
Beyond traditional sports channels, HITIQ has pioneered a world-first insurance integration partnership with Sportscover. This initiative embeds PROTEQT© technology into sports insurance offerings, starting with Hockey Australia and poised for expansion across Sportscover’s broader portfolio. This innovative approach positions PROTEQT© as a risk management tool, potentially accelerating institutional adoption.
Financial Position and Outlook
HITIQ successfully completed an oversubscribed placement raising approximately $925,000 before costs, demonstrating strong investor confidence. These funds will support ongoing product development, commercialisation efforts, and working capital needs. The company maintained disciplined cash management, ending the quarter with cash reserves of $359,670 and access to existing loan facilities totaling over $4 million.
Looking ahead, HITIQ aims to scale its retail distribution footprint, convert research partnerships into recurring commercial contracts, and expand PROTEQT© adoption across institutional, insurance, and defence sectors. Manufacturing and supply chain readiness are being aligned to meet anticipated demand growth, underscoring the company’s transition from validation to commercial execution.
Bottom Line?
HITIQ’s December quarter achievements set the stage for accelerated growth, but the pace of US market penetration and commercial returns will be key to watch.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will HITIQ convert North American research partnerships into revenue-generating contracts?
- What impact will the Sportscover insurance integration have on institutional adoption rates?
- Can HITIQ sustain its retail momentum beyond the initial Rebel rollout?