Program

Innovation Marketplace Overview

The Innovation Marketplace was a dynamic space where transformative ideas in maternal and newborn health came to life. This interactive experience spotlighted bold solutions driving change across the global health landscape and guide attendees to answer the question: “What propels a global health innovation from concept to change?” 

Attendees explored groundbreaking innovations that are reshaping how care for mothers, babies and their families are delivered. These included AI-powered technologies, innovative service delivery models and tools, training solutions, innovative toolkits, health information system innovations, clinical care product/devices and much more! From live demos to collaborative conversations, the Innovation Marketplace was an opportunity to engage with forward-thinking innovators, form partnerships, and get inspired.

See examples from IMNHC 2023 here.

Format and Experience 

The Innovation Marketplace took place in a large, open expo-style hall designed to spark connection, creativity, and conversation. The dynamic two-hour event began with a short opening rally, followed by an open exploration where all conference attendees engaged with the innovators, displays, and ideas. The event concluded with a brief closing statement and awards presentation. 

Those chosen to participate in the Innovation Marketplace had a dedicated display area, including a table and display options for posters or other materials. The Innovation Marketplace was set up with space to promote spontaneous networking and discussion. Various opportunities were available to promote interaction between participants and spark reflection with colleagues on key questions to foster meaningful learning. Examples of these interactive elements include:   

• Interactive Reflection Stations: Centered around a question exploring the Marketplace theme. 
• Innovation Scavenger Hunt: An optional activity designed to explore where innovations commonly get stuck and dive deeper into the Marketplace’s guiding question. 
• Voting for Innovations: Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for innovations to receive Innovation Marketplace awards. 

 

Additional Opportunities for Innovation Marketplace presenters: 

• Presenters were also invited to join an exclusive preparation and networking session the evening before the Innovation Marketplace. 
• A subset of innovation marketplace presenters were invited to organize small-group discussions designed to deep dive into a select group of curated innovations. These experiences open the possibility of critical feedback, generating new ideas, and helping refine promising solutions.