Who are Innovation Ambassadors?

Innovation Ambassadors are researchers and healthcare workers involved in innovation projects that translate their research and/or clinical experience into products, services, programs, and/or processes that are successfully implemented and impactful. Innovation ambassadors are committed to fostering increased multidisciplinary collaboration, finding solutions to problems in healthcare, and growing an ecosystem of innovators.

Purpose

1. Cultivate an environment that empowers and supports those currently involved in or those interested in learning more about health and health care innovation
   

2. Engage students by showcasing the work of our ambassadors and the opportunities that exist within this sub sector

3. Create a network of multidisciplinary teams that are ready to respond to problems in our healthcare system through innovative solutions

4. Promote new technology ventures to foster economic development within the Windsor Essex region

5. Enable innovative research projects by engaging investors, funding agencies, and industry

Key Initiatives

The WE-SPARK Health Institute will support the Innovation Ambassadors through several priority initiatives that are designed to grow their network, provide educational opportunities, and augment their innovative research efforts by:  

1. Creating a dedicated Innovation Ambassadors hub on the WE-SPARK website to showcase:

a. Health-related innovative industry partnerships

b. Commercialization projects

c. Health-related innovative community partnerships

d. An innovation roadmap to provide guidance on navigating internal processes at our partner institutions

2. Hosting webinars showcasing the work of our Innovation Ambassadors

3. Inviting guest speakers to talk about their innovation efforts and unique programs for advancing innovation

4. Partnering with experts to host workshops on innovation and commercialization topics

Benefits of Becoming an Ambassador

• Connect with representatives from provincial, national, and international organizations that are highly specialized in the life sciences/healthcare sector, such as in funding, industry partnerships, talent attraction, etc.

• Showcase your work to the regional community

• Broaden your network through exposure to regional and cross border partners

• Become a role model for the next generation of students interested in getting involved in healthcare innovation

• Join an exclusive networking group on the WE-SPARK app comprised of the innovation ambassadors, industry partners, and regional innovation contacts

Interested in becoming an Innovation Ambassador or learning more?

Contact: Chris Ng-Fletcher (Innovation Research Associate) at fletc114@uwindsor.ca