2027 MIT SLOAN HEALTHCARE INNOVATIONS PRIZE (SHIP)
APPLICATION
If you have an innovative solution to a problem in healthcare, apply now to compete in the 2027 Sloan Healthcare Innovations Prize!
Application deadline: December 4th, 2026 at 11:59 EST
Timeline
Application deadline: December 4th, 2026 at 11:59pm EST
Semi-Finalist Notification: January 15th, 2027
Virtual mentorship opportunities for Semi-Finalists: February 1st - 3rd, 2027
Semifinals: February 8th, 9th, 10th 2027 (7-9pm EST, virtual)
Finals: February 25th, 2027 (6-10pm EST, in-person)
Winner will present at Sloan Healthcare and Bioinnovations Conference: February 26, 2027 (MIT Media Lab)
Application Eligibility Requirements
At least one member of the team is a current student or recent graduate (graduated within the past three years) in an undergraduate, Masters, or PhD program
Team has not received more than $250K in funding thus far
At least one team member is available to pitch at the virtual semifinals on the evening of February 8th, 9th, 10th, and at least one team member is available for the in-person finals at the MIT Media Lab on the evening of February 25th
FAQ
Q: What stages of company can pitch?
A: We encourage only startups who have not yet received/raised more than $250,000 in funding to join our pitch competition. However, you need to have a solid idea in the healthcare space in order to get into the semifinals.
Q: How long should my pitch be?
A: You should plan a short version and a long version of your pitch. The short version should be less than 90 seconds, and the long version should be less than 4 min.
Q: Can I use visual aids for my pitch?
A: Your team may use PowerPoint slides to illustrate your idea. However, you are not required to use slides – this is up to your team.
Q: Do I need to pay to participate in the competition or to watch the finals?
A: There is no participation fee for teams or entry fee for the audience.
Q: Is this competition only open to students?
A: At least one member of the team must be a current student or recent graduate (graduated within the past three years).
