Convene Conference

Convene 2024

The Convene Conference at the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management brought together experts from the med tech industry to discuss the integration of advanced technologies into healthcare and the pathways for medical technology startups. Key sessions highlighted the adoption of AI in electronic health records, challenges of scaling startups within regulatory and funding constraints, and the potential of SmartTech to address workforce shortages and improve healthcare outcomes. Prominent themes included the necessity of realistic approaches to technology's role in healthcare, the importance of data privacy, and the effective collaboration across governmental, academic, and healthcare sectors to foster innovation.

Panel discussions emphasized the importance of matching medical technology with genuine healthcare needs, addressing administrative inefficiencies, and ensuring that healthcare innovations are patient-centered. The event showcased how organizations like Launch Minnesota and Medical Alley are pivotal in providing support and resources to over 1,300 startups, guiding them through complex regulatory landscapes. Furthermore, the conversations underscored the critical need for public-private partnerships and community involvement in shaping a future where technology and healthcare intersect efficiently to serve broader public health goals.