The Livestrong Foundation is offering entrepreneurs up to $25,000 for innovative ideas that could change the way the world fights cancer.
Roughly 32.5 million people worldwide battle with cancer, their lives riddled with questions: How do I keep track of my medical bills? How do I avoid feeling terrible after treatment?
The challenges survivors are forced to face daily, however, represent opportunities for disruption, whether in the form of new technology, products or services. Because of that, Livestrong launched The Big C Competition, a global innovation challenge dedicated to improving the lives of people with cancer.
Ventures at any stage are welcome to apply. Of those that do, 150 semi-finalists will be chosen, and given access to mentoring, crowdfunding and media exposure. The enterprising pool will then be whittled down to 20 semi-finalists, who will be invited to participate in a three-month accelerator program with a fresh $2,500 in hand.
The top five finalists will receive a paid trip in October to the final awards event in Austin. On the line? A grand prize of $25,000. The Big C Competition isn't just about the money, however; it's about changing lives.
Eric Stout is a two-time cancer survivor, who volunteers as a Livestrong leader. Initially diagnosed at age 28, he told BostInno via email that the Livestrong Foundation helped him "in many ways through their free navigation services." Because of that, he was inspired to get involved and spread the organization's message. Now, he hopes others in the Boston area will join the movement, as well.
"Not only is the city a leader in the healthcare/cancer community," Stout said, "but there's also been a tremendous innovation push in recent years. It's a perfect match."
The Livestrong Foundation is not looking for any rights to the submissions. They merely want to facilitate the success of a product that could help cancer survivors, according to Stout, who will serve as a "survivor mentor" once the competition is officially underway.
Boston-based startup Gentoo, co-founded by Wentworth graduates Greg Affsa and Ben Nadeau, is currently listed as one of the "featured projects" on The Big C Competition's website. The company's "Gentoo Vest" is a light compression vest designed to safely manage infusion equipment on a patient's body, thereby improving his or her quality of life.
Other startups interested in applying to the challenge have until Thursday, May 15. To submit your idea and help change the way the world fights cancer, click here. To learn more, watch the video below.
