The fourth annual Healthcare Transformation IDEATOR is set to bring together thought leaders from University Hospitals and NEOMED to explore the critical challenge of environmental health issues and their impact on communities across Northeast Ohio. This year’s event will delve into five key areas of environmental health—asthma, lead poisoning, chronic diseases, pre-term birth, cancer and microplastics—to better understand and address their effects in the region. This two-day immersive experience will empower participants to develop innovative, entrepreneurial solutions that promote healthier, more sustainable environments for those most affected by environmental disparities.
Taking place on Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 11–12, 2026, in Cleveland, the IDEATOR workshop will provide a unique platform for collaboration among UH, NEOMED and local community partners. Participants will engage in an intensive, hands-on experience where they will receive a real community story on day one to guide their brainstorming and solution design process. Working in multidisciplinary teams, participants will have access to expert coaches, resources and tools to help transform their ideas into actionable solutions with lasting impact.
On day two, the workshop will culminate in a public pitch competition, where teams will present their solutions to a panel of judges. Winning teams will receive cash prizes and project funding, along with continued support from an Entrepreneur-in-Residence to help advance their concepts beyond the event.
This collaborative initiative encourages innovation and strengthens partnerships between healthcare providers, academic institutions and the community—advancing IDEATOR’s mission to address social determinants of health and improve the well-being of Northeast Ohio residents.
We invite you to be part of this transformational experience and join us in creating bold solutions that make Northeast Ohio a healthier, more sustainable place to live.
We encourage you to review the frequently asked questions below and submit the application form if you’d like to participate in the event. If you have any further questions, please contact Taylor Szumski at [email protected].
Interested in learning more about last year’s IDEATOR event? Click here to read the recap.
FAQs
Q: What is the IDEATOR event?
A: The IDEATOR Innovation Competition is a two-day immersive event held in Cleveland, Ohio, where teams collaborate to address a critical challenge facing Northeast Ohio. This year’s theme focuses on environmental health, with participants exploring five key areas: asthma, lead poisoning, chronic diseases, pre-term birth, cancer, and microplastics. Thought leaders from University Hospitals and NEOMED will work together to develop innovative solutions to these pressing issues. The first- and second-place teams will receive individual awards, along with additional funding to further advance their projects if they choose to continue.
Q: I am thinking about participating in the event but don’t know if I can dedicate the time. What is the time commitment for the event?
A: The two-day event will take place Wednesday and Thursday, February 11–12, 2026, and requires in-person attendance. Participants are expected to attend from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Day 1 (with an optional networking hour to follow) and from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Day 2, which will conclude with a celebratory reception from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Prior to the event, you’ll also be asked to attend one to two brief meetings (about an hour each) to learn more about the IDEATOR, review event logistics, and ask any questions you may have.
Students may attend by completing the University Student Absence Form.
Q: What are the benefits of participating in the IDEATOR event?
A: The IDEATOR offers a unique opportunity to collaborate across organizations, as teams are comprised of participants from both NEOMED and University Hospitals. In addition to building new connections, you’ll have the chance to network with leadership from both institutions and engage with keynote speakers featured throughout the event.
There are also monetary awards for winning teams.
- First-place team members each receive $500, and the team collectively receives $5,000 to support project implementation with ongoing guidance from leadership.
- Second-place team members each receive $250, and the team also receives $5,000 for project implementation with continued leadership support.
Q: I decided I want to participate. What can I expect from the two-day in-person event?
A:
Day 1: You’ll be introduced to the event topic and background, hear from keynote speakers, and meet your team. Teams will begin brainstorming and developing ideas to address the challenge.
Day 2: You’ll continue collaborating with your team to refine your solution and prepare your presentation for the judging panel. After presentations, winners will be announced, followed by a networking cocktail hour to celebrate and connect with other participants.
Meals: A light breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided on both days.
Q: What have past participants shared about their experiences with the IDEATOR?
A: Past participants have shared that the IDEATOR allows them to engage with important issues on a much deeper level. By developing real-world solutions, participants gain a better understanding of the barriers people face—helping them see challenges through others’ perspectives and fostering greater compassion and awareness.
They’ve also highlighted the value of collaborating with such diverse groups of professionals. From students to physicians, nurses, and social workers, participants appreciate how each person brings a unique perspective and expertise to the table—demonstrating that meaningful solutions require a truly interdisciplinary approach.
All in all, participants describe the IDEATOR as a truly unique and valuable experience—one that combines collaboration, creativity, and purpose. It’s an opportunity to make real connections, learn from others, and contribute to meaningful change in the community.