OvaCure’s approach to exploring, developing, and initiating new research has, since our foundation, shown successful results and paved the way for the development of the Innovation Challenge, which is the first research hackathon in ovarian cancer in the world. The first OvaCure Innovation Challenge was held in January 2020 in Copenhagen with participation from researchers from all over the world.
The reception of OvaCure’s first Challenge was very impressive. Great enthusiasm has been expressed from all participants over the new model, which is the Innovation Challenge. All participants expressed that the event provided unique opportunities for the formation of new networks and collaborations.
Four new project ideas were developed at Innovation Challenge 2020, and the most promising project received the OvaCure Award, which was presented by Minister of Health Magnus Heunicke at an award ceremony with the participation of foundations, press, researchers, and other professionals.
The prize consisted of two elements and the project was awarded:
The total prize thus had a value of 1.500.000 DKK.
The OvaCure Innovation Challenge is held every other year, and there is space for 30 participants, all of whom must be leading researchers in their field. All participants are specially selected to ensure diversity so that many specialties and principle fields are represented.
Since OvaCure was founded in 2014, we have held several Round Table meetings, Innovation Summits, and other events. We thus have recognized experience in creating a space of trust for sharing research ideas and facilitating the process along the way; a valuable element in the work of ensuring the development of new research that can make a difference for women with ovarian cancer.
The 2020 Award project was delayed due to COVID-19, but began its start-up phase in October 2021.
In addition, the event initiated several other collaborations and research projects:
“Based on discussions at OvaCure Innovation Challenge 2020, myself, Anil Sood and Dan Powell submitted a Collaborative Research Development Grant application to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, which was funded for three years, starting January 2021. We’re all very grateful to OvaCure for providing the stimulus that led to this success.“
Martin J. Cannon, Ph.D.,
Professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
