Northeast Ohio Medical University Hosts National Medical Innovation Showdown for Students

NEOvations Bench to Bedside: A Platform for Future Medical Innovators

Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) is set to host its NEOvations Bench to Bedside competition on April 9, 2025, at the NEOMED Education and Wellness Center. This annual event invites student-led teams from various colleges and universities across the United States to design and develop medical innovations, transforming concepts into tangible prototypes.

The competition serves as a dynamic platform where students collaborate across disciplines, leveraging their unique skills and knowledge to address pressing healthcare issues. This year’s showcase will feature teams presenting a range of medical devices and technologies aimed at meeting unmet patient needs. The event not only highlights creativity and interdisciplinary collaboration but also provides invaluable exposure and networking opportunities with healthcare leaders, investors, attorneys, and researchers.

A Year-Long Journey of Development

Participating teams engage in a rigorous year-long process, working diligently to refine their projects. They are mentored by professionals who guide them through the bench-to-bedside process, ensuring that each innovation is not only viable but also market-ready. This unique approach equips students with critical insights into the healthcare industry and helps them understand the challenges of bringing a product from idea to implementation.

NEOMED President John T. Langell emphasized the significance of the program, stating, "The NEOvations Bench to Bedside program provides an outstanding platform to engage students into interdisciplinary teams and unleash creativity to solve some of the world's biggest health care problems." This event is an opportunity for students to display their innovative spirit and entrepreneurial mindset, which are essential in the continually evolving field of healthcare.

Prizes and Recognition

At this year’s competition, the stakes are high, with top teams competing for monetary prizes ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. These awards aim to support the further development of their innovations, empowering students to take their ideas from the drawing board to potential market launch. The free event is open to the public, encouraging community engagement and interest in medical advancements.

The NEOvations Bench to Bedside competition is supported by the Burton D. Morgan Foundation, alongside the NEOMED Foundation. Their contributions highlight the importance of financial backing in nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Join the Showcase

Interested parties are encouraged to register and attend the showcase event on April 9, where they will have the opportunity to learn about the latest innovations in healthcare and witness firsthand the ingenuity of tomorrow's medical professionals. Check-in will begin at 4:30 PM at the NEOMED Education and Wellness Center, located at 4211 St. Rt. 44, Rootstown, Ohio.

This event promises to be more than just a competition; it's a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of solutions to improve patient care. Don’t miss the chance to witness the unfolding of groundbreaking ideas that could reshape the future of medicine.

Conclusion

The NEOvations Bench to Bedside competition reaffirms NEOMED's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting students in their journey to become healthcare pioneers. As this competition continues to grow, it cultivates a meaningful dialogue about the future of healthcare and emphasizes the role that young innovators will play in shaping it.