Swimming with Sharks Innovation Challenge

Sunday, October 18 | Center Stage in the Exhibit Hall

The sharks are circling—ready to hear the next big idea

Get off the sidelines and into the tank. Pitch your clinical solution to a packed audience and judging panel at ANESTHESIOLOGY 2026. 
 
Swimming with Sharks Innovation Challenge, hosted by the Committee on Innovation, returns to Center Stage this year, providing entrepreneurs and inventors feedback to help move innovative ideas forward. And why not? No one knows anesthesiology challenges—and possible solutions—better than you. 
 
Share your concept during the Swimming with Sharks Innovation Challenge! Three finalists will be selected to present their pitches live for the opportunity to win a $1,000 cash prize, award recognition, and special spotlight from ASA. Additional runners-up will be offered the opportunity to have their elevator pitches played during the Innovation Challenge. Submissions close August 1, 2026. 

Submit your pitch

Application details: 

• Application Format:  Video-recorded elevator pitch 
• Submission Deadline: August 1, 2026 
• Duration: ~ 2 mins (3 mins max) 
• Use Loom to record your pitch (learn how) 

Key elements of an effective elevator pitch: 

• Problem:
  • Clearly state the specific clinical problem your solution addresses.
  • Highlight the clinical and economic importance of solving this problem. 
• Solution:
  • Describe how your solution effectively tackles the problem. 
  • Explain what makes your approach unique, protectable (e.g., patents), and impactful. 
• Market:
  • Identify your target customers and their willingness to pay. 
• Business: 
  • Provide a high-level financial snapshot to demonstrate the viability of your business model. 
  • Share any significant milestones your team has achieved. 
• Team:
  • Highlight your team’s qualifications and expertise to ensure successful execution of the solution.