Innovators’ Challenge

Liquid skin for wound and burn healing. New technologies for early cancer detection and improving cancer surgery outcomes. A mobile app for emergency department patient management. These are all health care innovations in development across Vancouver Coastal Health.

Thanks to the first ever Innovators’ Challenge event, an amazing $311,394 was raised to support these creative solutions which have the potential to transform health care in BC and beyond.

On April 9, Dr. Aziz Ghahary, Dr. Don Anderson, Dr. Haishan Zeng and Dr. Kendall Ho pitched their research projects to an audience of innovators and entrepreneurs from across the health, wealth and technology sectors. Dr. Ghahary’s liquid skin (MeshFill) was awarded the $25,000 Bradshaw Prize following an audience vote and all four projects received donations to support their progression.

The event was initiated by VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation in partnership with Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute – who provided a shortlist of projects for the event. An advisory committee from the health and innovation sectors selected the projects for the event. Criteria for selection included the potential for savings to healthcare system, greater patient impact and commercialization potential.

2018 Lifetime Achievement in Health Innovation Award: Dr Donald Ricci

The new Lifetime Achievement in Health Innovation Award, presented by VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, recognizes the exceptional capabilities, achievements and leadership of an individual from the medical device, biotech, diagnostics and/or health care industries. The inaugural winner was selected by the Innovators’ Challenge Advisory Committee following review of all nominations.

Congratulations to the 2018 Lifetime Achievement in Health Innovation Award winner, Dr. Donald Ricci.