Problems signing up to Oculus Start for hardware projects

Some time ago, I launched a startup to develop new, modular peripherals; designed to make XR more accessible to the disabled.  A kind member of the Support department directed me to Oculus Start, where they said I would be able to possibly receive a free Oculus Rift kit to help me with my development.

It sounded easy enough at first, until I realised the application only offers the Project Type as a game, application, video or experience, so I went back to Support.  They then told me there was an "Oculus Business team" I could contact which is, apparently, separate from the Oculus for Business program... however, they don't seem to have a way to forward my enquiry to the right people.

I have been trying to get a straight answer since June, so my question is simple - is there any way I can get a free Rift kit to develop hardware, not software, or must I wait until I can afford an Oculus Rift for Business kit (which could be at least a year, since I don't have funding yet)?