Challenge statement: 

How might your innovation improve the care experience for people living with digestive diseases?

Who should apply?

This global call for solutions is open to individuals and teams across the innovation ecosystem—including community researchers, students, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and early- to mid-stage startups. We welcome innovations in the GI and hepatology space that address meaningful, unmet needs through products, technologies, services, or therapeutics. 

To be considered, your solution must be beyond the conceptual or pre-seed stage. We’re looking for innovations that demonstrate tangible progress—such as a working prototype, early clinical or user data, initial regulatory engagement, or other clear indicators that the concept is being executed as envisioned. 

Participants should be able to commit approximately five hours per week to the virtual program, which runs from November 1 to April 30. All participants must also be able to attend the final in-person pitch event in Chicago, IL, during the week of May 2–6. 

Timeline

August 5, 2025: Applications open

September 21, 2025: Applications close

October 17, 2025: Cohort announced

November 1, 2025–April 30, 2026: Six-month incubator

May 2-6, 2026: Final event in-person in Chicago, IL. Exact date TBD.