Cleveland NeuroDesign Entrepreneurs Workshop - PROJECT SUMMARY The journey from health research to patient-centered solutions, especially in the realm of neural engineering and neurotechnology, presents numerous challenges. These span from the intricacies of clinical requirements to the complexities of regulatory landscapes. Moreover, traditional academia doesn't always prepare students for the commercial aspects of their innovations. Addressing this need is the Cleveland NeuroDesign Entrepreneurs Workshop (CNEW). Modeled after Stanford's Biodesign framework, CNEW equips neurotechnology researchers and entrepreneurs with the skills needed to transform their scientific concepts into viable commercial solutions. Hosted annually at Case Western Reserve University, the workshop gathers a select cohort of 32 participants. These attendees, grouped into teams, embark on a journey from identifying clinical needs to presenting a business pitch. The program offers a rich blend of lectures, real-world case studies, and mentorship, culminating in a pitch competition evaluated by industry experts. Having conducted four iterations, CNEW has established its effectiveness in fostering entrepreneurial self-efficacy (Aim 1) and promoting long-term professional growth in the neurotechnology sector (Aim 2). The workshop's track record showcases its role in transforming participants into adept professionals, ready to innovate in the field of neurotechnology. For the upcoming 5th iteration in September 2024, we are seeking partial funds via this R13 application. Our institution is fully supportive, with recurrent faculty involvement. Aiming to widen our impact, we are amplifying our outreach to underrepresented STEM communities, ensuring a more diverse and inclusive participation.
