Skip to main content

The Collaborative Innovation Initiative (CII) is a year-long program that fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the School of Medicine. It begins with a Kick-off event for initial problem submission, setting the stage for collaboration between clinicians and scientists. Through a series of three targeted workshops, participants work together to develop innovative responses to real-world clinical and operational challenges.

Beyond the workshops, the program provides mentorship and resources to help move promising ideas toward real-world application. This initiative reinforces UC Irvine’s role as a leader in clinical innovation by connecting frontline healthcare needs with scientific expertise to deliver practical, impactful solutions.

Timeline graphic for the Clinical Innovation Incubator Program showing four stages—Kick-Off Event, Workshop 1, Workshop 2, and Workshop 3—along a winding road with labeled icons representing each step.

Workshop 1: Information Session & Networking


An overview of the program’s goals, timeline and expectations. Participants are introduced to available resources and receive guidance on how to prepare for collaboration.

Workshop 2: Pitch & Match Session


Participants present their submitted challenges and are matched with scientists in relevant fields. This session focuses on building cross-disciplinary teams and initiating solution development.

Workshop 3: Final Presentations


Teams pitch their developed solutions to a panel of faculty, leadership and innovation experts. Feedback helps shape future direction and highlights opportunities for continued development or support.