Innovation Challenge Invites Applications from Entrepreneurs Affected by MS

A collaborative initiative between Lyfebulb and Celgene — called “Addressing Unmet Needs in MS: An Innovation Challenge” — is inviting applications from U.S.-based entrepreneurs who have multiple sclerosis (MS), or who have been affected by the disease, and whose companies are trying to find solutions to address unmet needs of the disease.

The goal of the challenge is to find innovative solutions for day-to-day problems faced by MS patients, their families, and caregivers.

“Patients and those who support them offer such valuable insights into their journey and can directly provide solutions to improve aspects of living with a chronic disease beyond treatment,” Karin Hehenberger, MD, PhD, CEO and founder of Lyfebulb, said in a press release.

“Celgene is eager to hear from those who have experienced MS first-hand about their needs and potential solutions to improve the management of daily life with MS,” Terrie Curran, president, Celgene Inflammation and Immunology, added.

The companies announced their collaboration for the innovation challenge in November with the intent of increasing awareness about MS, and to aid in the development of patient-centric solutions that can improve patients’ lives.

The two-day event is scheduled for June 12-13 at Celgene Headquarters in Summit, New Jersey. The selected finalists will be invited to attend the event and pitch their ideas to the company leadership.

In addition, it is an opportunity for the entrepreneurs to network with Lyfebulb founders, Celgene representatives, potential investors, and members of the MS patient community. Ideas can be discussed, collaborations can be set with fellow participants, and interactions with key opinion leaders.

“This Innovation Challenge will bring together the thought leaders who intersect the patient and business communities, and we foresee a compelling exchange of ideas over this two-day summit,” Curran said.

The judging criteria include the innovation’s ability to address the problem efficiently, its impact on patient needs, uniqueness, and marketing feasibility.

The winner will receive $25,000, which can be used to develop their portfolio in the competitive market.

The last day to submit applications is at 11.59 p.m. (EDT) April 12. Entry to the competition is free, and entrepreneurs may apply at https://lyfebulb.com/innovation-award/celgene-2019/.

“We look forward to receiving applications from patient entrepreneurs across the country and, together with Celgene, helping accelerate the prospects of these top innovators to benefit people living with MS,” Hehenberger said.

Eligibility requirements, detailed judging criteria and terms and conditions for the challenge can be viewed here.