Iowa Nurse Innovators Pitch Competition

Some ideas solve a problem for one patient. Others have the potential to improve care for many.

Join us in Iowa City as nurse innovators from across the state pitch healthcare solutions they have developed through the Nurse Innovators Program. Each participant has moved beyond identifying a challenge and into creating and testing a potential solution. Now they are ready to take the next step.

During the Pitch Event, innovators will present their prototypes and early-stage innovations to a panel of judges and a live audience, sharing the problem they set out to address, what they have learned along the way, and how additional funding could help move their ideas forward.

More than a competition, this event is a celebration of what becomes possible when nurses are given the time, support, and resources to explore the challenges they encounter in practice every day.

The program will feature pitches from nurse innovators, a keynote presentation from nurse innovator Courtney Smith, an awards ceremony, and opportunities to connect with healthcare leaders, innovators, educators, students, and community partners.

Pitch Competition Awards

• 1st Place: TBA

• 2nd Place: TBA

• 3rd Place: TBA

Whether you're interested in healthcare innovation, supporting nurse-led solutions, or seeing what happens when ideas move from concept to reality, we invite you to join us for an inspiring experience centered on creativity, problem-solving, and impact.

For Applicants

The Pitch Competition is open to nurses currently participating in the Nurse Innovators Program. Applications are open now and close on November 1.

Accepted applicants will receive individualized coaching and pitch preparation resources, including a sample pitch deck and video. Participants will work with an expert review panel to strengthen and refine their presentations before the competition, helping them communicate their ideas with confidence and clarity.