TechConnect Critical Technology Challenge: Biotech & Medical

MARCH 10-12, 2026 | RALEIGH, NC
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Addressing National Priorities Through Life Science Innovation

The Critical Technology Challenge is an open-innovation program focused on accelerating breakthrough technologies in alignment with evolving strategic priorities for public health, national security, and medical resilience. In 2026, the spotlight is on biotech and medical innovation, showcasing advances in diagnostics, therapeutics, bioengineering, digital health, and medical readiness. Join us in Raleigh to define the future of biotech and medical technologies!

Why Participate?

✓	Pitch on a global stage – Showcase your biotech or medical innovation to top-tier industry, government, and investor decision-makers.

✓	Access major funding – Engage with leaders controlling over $8 billion annually through SBIR, OTA, and related funding vehicles.

✓	Shape the future – Position your innovation at the epicenter of policymaking and industry strategy.

SUBMIT NOW

Areas of Interest:

Next-generation diagnostics and biosensors
Advanced therapeutics and delivery systems
Synthetic biology and bioengineering platforms
Medical devices, wearables, and remote monitoring
Biomanufacturing and lab automation
Digital health and AI-enabled care solutions
Preparedness and response technologies
Personalized medicine and precision health
Regenerative medicine and cell/gene therapies
and other transformative biotech and medical innovations

This challenge does not declare a single winner; instead, individuals selected to participate are honored as finalists.

WHO SHOULD APPLY

Ideal participants include:

Universities, national labs, and research groups with actionable IP
Startups in need of funding, licensing, or strategic partnerships
SBIR/STTR and other federally funded innovators seeking growth

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Submit your Innovation - Deadline: October 24, 2025.
Pitch and Showcase - If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to present live at the event.
Register to Confirm - A registration fee is required to participate.
Pitch in Raleigh, NC, March 10–12, 2026.

Key Dates

Submission Deadline: October 24, 2025
Finalist Notification: November 2025
Pitch & Showcase: March 10–12, 2026
Location: Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, NC

Questions? Please contact Emma Mooney: emma.mooney@techconnect.org

Presented by

2025 SPONSORS & PARTNERS

2025 SBIR/STTR AGENCY PARTNERS

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