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Bench to Bedside APEX is a global competition for student-founded companies developing medical devices, diagnostics, and health technologies. Teams present their business plans and innovations to a panel of judges representing clinical, engineering, and investment expertise. The competition emphasizes device-focused innovation with the potential to improve patient outcomes, streamline care, and address unmet clinical needs.
ELIGIBILITY: Startup teams must be comprised of currently-enrolled students at any higher-education institution or recent graduates (graduation 2025 or later). Startups that have raised more than $350k in combined dilutive and non-dilutive funding are not eligible to compete in APEX.
REQUIREMENTS: Teams selected for APEX are expected to attend both the Virtual Judging Round on Zoom (July 27-28, 2026) and the in-person APEX Grand Finale in Salt Lake City, Utah (October 23–24, 2026). All teams may apply for a travel stipend to attend the APEX Grand Finale.
BENEFITS: Winning startups receive a $50k cash prize, dedicated incubator space at the Sorenson Center for Medical Innovation, a scholarship to the University of Utah Master of Business Creation program, and more.
More information about rules, eligibility, and dates for Bench to Bedside APEX can be found on our website: https://uofuhealth.utah.edu/center-for-medical-innovation/programs/bench-to-bedside-apex
ELIGIBILITY: Startup teams must be comprised of currently-enrolled students at any higher-education institution or recent graduates (graduation 2025 or later). Startups that have raised more than $350k in combined dilutive and non-dilutive funding are not eligible to compete in APEX.
REQUIREMENTS: Teams selected for APEX are expected to attend both the Virtual Judging Round on Zoom (July 27-28, 2026) and the in-person APEX Grand Finale in Salt Lake City, Utah (October 23–24, 2026). All teams may apply for a travel stipend to attend the APEX Grand Finale.
BENEFITS: Winning startups receive a $50k cash prize, dedicated incubator space at the Sorenson Center for Medical Innovation, a scholarship to the University of Utah Master of Business Creation program, and more.
More information about rules, eligibility, and dates for Bench to Bedside APEX can be found on our website: https://uofuhealth.utah.edu/center-for-medical-innovation/programs/bench-to-bedside-apex