CHEO seeks innovation partners

OTTAWA – Core Innovation, a program powered by the CHEO Research Institute, is inviting early-stage tech companies to apply for the next cohort of its Invention Studio Session. The program tackles key challenges in health technology entrepreneurship It provides strategies to mitigate risks related to leadership, market analysis, pricing, and securing funds.

Participants will gain insights from our experienced team, industry experts and will collaborate with end users, and clinicians to refine their technologies. This approach ensures product-market fit, enables scalable solutions, and drives market viability.

In this Call for Innovation, we are interested in transformative solutions that address critical gaps in healthcare access and delivery. We are particularly interested in innovations that empower caregivers, improve care delivery at home, and ensure equitable healthcare for underserved populations, individuals with disabilities, and those in remote areas.

More specifically, we are looking for solutions in the following areas:

• Home health care (hospital at home): Tools, technologies, and systems that enhance care delivery in home settings for pediatric and geriatric populations, improve patient safety, and support caregivers.
• Access to care: Innovations that reduce barriers, improve equity, and expand the reach of health care services, particularly for underserved populations or those managing chronic conditions.

Bringing a health-tech innovation to the market is complex. Founders often face challenges like understanding market demand, creating sustainable pricing strategies, and securing funding. This program is designed to help you tackle these hurdles head-on.

• Gain market insights and build a winning strategy

We’ll help you assess demand, refine your value proposition, and create a business model that resonates.

• Collaborate with experts and end users

You’ll collaborate with seasoned entrepreneurs, clinicians, and end users to ensure your solution meets real-world needs and improves patient outcomes.

• Position your technology for long-term success

Our hands-on training will equip you with the tools and strategies you need to optimize care delivery, empower caregivers, and create lasting change in health care.

We’re looking for pre-revenue companies with bold ideas, ready to dedicate time and effort to bringing their innovations to life.

Invention companies are assessed and supported based on the following key factors:

• Market desirability: Is there a clear demand for the product?
• Technical feasibility: Can the solution be realistically developed and implemented?
• Business viability: Is the business sustainable and scalable?
• Team capacity: Does the team have the skills and resources to succeed?

What Can You Expect?

• Tailored support to overcome challenges: Hands-on support from our team and industry experts for up to 6 months to address barriers like market fit, product validation, and business strategy.
• Access to a robust network: Connect with clinicians, end users, and industry experts, including potential partners and investors.
• Essential tools and skills: Training in key areas of health tech entrepreneurship to de-risk your business.
• Real-World feedback: Test your product with clinicians, patients, and caregivers to ensure alignment with user needs.
• Exclusive resources: Access to essential resources to help navigate the innovation pathway.
• Measurable growth: A clear roadmap for moving your business forward, from ideation to market readiness.
• Commitment and accountability: A structured, time-bound program with regular check-ins to ensure progress and keep you on track.

For more information about Core Innovation, please visit our webpage.