Open MIC Pitch Night at The Shop
Tulane’s Innovation Institute is coming to The Shop! The Tulane University Innovation Institute, in partnership with Tulane’s School of Medicine and the John W. Deming Department of Medicine, will be hosting an Open MIC (Medical Innovation Challenge) Night on October 24th at The Shop at the CAC. They are currently seeking applicants with innovative ideas to address various human health and wellness challenges. The deadline to apply is September 27th, and you can find all the necessary information on the Innovation Institute’s website.
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.
Participants will pitch their ideas to a panel of industry expert judges who will evaluate the feasibility and impact of each proposal. Teams will have three minutes to present their ideas for the chance to win a cash prize, sponsored participation in I-CORPS, and professional mentorship to advance their concept.
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!
Open MIC Night will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Shop at the CAC, located on the 3rd floor of 900 Camp St. Want to drop by and work for the day before the event? Reserve your Day Pass ahead of time here.