IBX Game Changers Challenge: Enhancing health and wellness through innovation

Posted by on June 18, 2012

Do you have an idea that you think could really impact the health of the Greater Philadelphia region?  Are you trying to start a company or develop a product that will contribute to the health of our region?  Well, Independence Blue Cross (IBX) wants to support your efforts.  We are excited to announce that IBX has teamed up with Wharton Entrepreneurial Programs (WEP), the Department of Public Health of the City of Philadelphia, ?What If! Innovation Partners, and Venturef0rth to launch the “IBX Game Changers Challenge: Enhancing health and wellness through innovation” initiative.  The Challenge seeks to harness the creative energies of our community by soliciting innovative solutions that can improve our region’s health and wellness.

IBX is looking for software applications, devices, products, education programs, or public awareness campaigns that can deliver a positive impact on our health, with special emphasis on driving healthy behaviors such as eating right and getting fit.  Entries can be either for-profit or not-for-profit, and proposals can be for either one-time events or campaigns or for the establishment of lasting businesses, although preference will be given to ideas that may give rise to self-sustaining business entities.

Applications are being accepted from individuals and organizations now through July 10, 2012 at http://www.ibx.com/challenge. Each proposal will be evaluated by a panel of expert judges and rated on their feasibility, scalability, sustainability, and impact on health metrics.  Up to three winners will be announced the week of July 30, 2012 and will receive:

·         a $50,000 grant toward implementation of their product or program;
·         up to three months of desk space, business support, and advisory services at Venturef0rth, an incubator in Philadelphia;
·         business mentoring services from Wharton Entrepreneurial Programs; and
·         a consulting session provided by ?What If! Innovation Partners for each winner to help them further build out their idea and maximize its impact.

For more Challenge information, rules and regulations, and to apply on line, please click here: http://www.ibx.com/challenge.  Like what you see?  Join the discussion at #IBXChallenge.