Center for Medical Innovation
Develop and debut next-generation medical devices with cutting-edge equipment, expert support, and premier discovery and training spaces.
Empowering Innovators to Revolutionize Health Care
We know the journey from concept to commercialization is complex. That’s why we’ve built a centralized ecosystem that supports every stage of medical device development, from prototyping and testing to regulatory guidance and market launch.
The Center for Medical Innovation (CMI) at the University of Utah brings together clinicians, engineers, entrepreneurs, and students to turn bold ideas into real-world medical solutions. Whether you're building a device, launching a startup, or conducting hands-on experiences, CMI is your partner in innovation and improving health outcomes for all.
Where You Fit In
Learn about the groups CMI works with and how we help you.
-
We offer three distinct avenues to support a MedTech company’s innovation journey:
ASCENT Surgical Lab
A cutting-edge facility and event space built for hands-on device training, product demonstrations, and immersive learning experiences. Host an unforgettable MedTech experience at the Sorenson Center for Medical Innovation.
Clinical Learning and Immersion Program (CLIP)
A unique opportunity to observe real-world procedures and engage directly with practicing clinicians, helping you gather the insights that drive smarter product development.
Regulatory Affairs Consulting
Expert guidance to help you navigate the complex regulatory landscape with clarity and confidence, ensuring your innovations meet compliance standards and reach the market efficiently.
Partner with CMI to streamline market readiness, deepen clinical understanding, and bring your technology to life in a space purpose-built for MedTech success.
-
We offer integrated support to MedTech startups across three key areas:
Private Startup Incubators
Set up shop in a private office and collaborative workspace designed to foster innovation, with direct access to expert engineering resources and clinical-grade facilities. Get everything you need to launch and scale your startup under one roof.
Prototyping Lab
Work side by side with our team of engineers to build, test, and refine your technology using advanced prototyping and design equipment. Commission CMI services in 3D printing, fabrication, machining, and more.
Regulatory Affairs Consulting
Navigate compliance with confidence by partnering with our regulatory experts to streamline product development and accelerate your path to market.
Whether you're a resident startup or seeking targeted support, CMI is here to help you succeed and improve health care.
-
We offer two pathways for faculty and external partner engagement:
MedTech Venture Studio
A hands-on partnership where University of Utah faculty and external partners work with CMI’s industry experts to design, develop, and launch commercially viable medical devices. From concept to commercialization, we help bring your innovation to life.
Bench to Bedside Mentorship
Engage with students by mentoring interdisciplinary teams or pitching your own device ideas for students to prototype and present in Utah’s premier medical innovation competition.
Whether you're looking to build a startup, refine a concept, or inspire future MedTech leaders, CMI is your partner in turning ideas into impact.
-
We offer two ways for students to gain real-world experience and resources to make a meaningful impact in health care:
Bench to Bedside
Join interdisciplinary teams from engineering, business, medicine, and more to solve real clinical problems, collaborate with health care mentors, and develop innovative solutions. Top teams receive milestone funding to continue building and refining their ideas.
Fellowships
Dive deeper into the MedTech ecosystem through immersive, hands-on fellowships. Work alongside industry experts to shape business models, develop best practices, and learn what it takes to bring transformative ideas from concept to reality.
CMI is where students turn ideas into impact through hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and real-world learning opportunities.
FACILITIES
Bench to Bedside
In this premier health care innovation competition, students from across Utah come together to address issues facing health care professionals today and build next-generation medical devices.
Bench to Bedside APEX
This next-level competition expands Bench to Bedside onto a global stage, bringing together top student-founded companies to compete for $50k in funding along with elite mentorship, investment exposure, and the opportunity to accelerate real-world health care impact.
News
Your Launchpad for MedTech Success
Your ideas are shaping modern health care. With our cutting-edge tools, state-of-the-art facilities, and expert support, CMI is here to help you bring your vision to life.

Subscribe to receive the latest updates and communications from CMI.