THE NEXT OPEN MIC NIGHT IS APRIL 9, 2025
The Tulane University Innovation Institute, in partnership with Tulane’s School of Medicine, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, has hosted three Open MIC (Medical Innovation Challenge) Nights since its inception. We are seeking applicants with innovative ideas for addressing various human health and wellness challenges. Every innovation starts as a seed of an idea and we want to hear yours!
After submitting via the online web form, applications will be reviewed by the Innovation Institute, and applicants will have an opportunity 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 your idea!
WHAT: Pitch (or come watch) the next BIG idea to solve a medical or wellness challenge.
WHEN: April 9, 2025; 5:30 pm- 8:00 pm
WHERE: TBA
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, 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!
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT IDEA: March 24, 2025
CONTACT INFORMATION: Jillian Delos Reyes at JDelosReyes@tulane.edu. If you’re not sure if your idea applies, please reach out!