Open Medical Innovation Challenge (OPEN MIC) night is a partnership between The Tulane University Innovation Institute and Tulane’s School of Medicine, John W. Deming Department of Medicine. We seek applicants with innovative ideas for addressing various human health and wellness challenges twice a year.
After submitting an idea, the Innovation Institute will review the applications. Applicants will be able to present and practice their pitches with the Innovation Institute team. Ten finalists will be selected from this semi-final round to pitch their early-stage ideas at the Open MIC Night event.
These ideas are pitched live to a panel of industry expert judges who evaluate the feasibility and impact of each proposal. Selected participants will have three minutes to pitch their ideas for the opportunity to win a cash prize, sponsored participation in I-CORPS, and professional mentorship to advance their idea!
Applications for the Spring cycle open January 20, 2026.
COMPETITION DATE — April 15, 2026
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE— Faculty, staff, undergraduate, graduate, medical, and PhD students, postdocs, residents, fellows, and Tulane alumni who have graduated within the past two years.
THE PRIZE— Winners will receive an initial $750, gain access to 1:1 business idea mentorship for refining, and access to the I-CORPS Spark and Fusion programs. These programs help innovators and idea-makers explore the potential value of their research or innovation. Spark participation is mandatory for all winners, and after completion, they will be given $2,000 for further idea development.
Participation in the Fusion program is optional, but winners who choose to participate will be given an additional $3,000 upon completion of their innovation development. If winners complete the full award and training pipeline, they can be awarded up to $5,750!
CONTACT INFORMATION— If you’re not sure if your idea applies, please contact JDelosReyes@tulane.edu.
OPEN MIC NIGHT PAST WINNERS
JOIN US AT THE NEXT OPEN MIC NIGHT ON APRIL 15, 2026
