Cocktails & Conversations
Q3 Update: Innovation in Uncertain Times
Nine months into a year defined by seismic shifts, healthcare research and innovation are navigating a volatile landscape of funding cuts, policy changes, and a cooling early-stage investment market—yet within this turbulence, new pathways and unexpected opportunities are beginning to emerge. These dynamics are reshaping how research is funded, how startups are capitalized, and how new technologies make their way to patients and markets.
Ignite invites you to a powerful fireside chat featuring entrepreneurs and investors who are on the front lines of this transformation. Together, they will share how they’re adapting, what insights they’ve gained, and where they see bright spots in an uncertain environment:
Sandra Saldana, CEO & Co-Founder, Alva Health – An Ignite entrepreneur leading a breakthrough medical device startup focused on early stroke detection.
Kim Schwartz, Managing Director, US Health Tech Lead, Accenture – Driving digital transformation across healthcare.
James Wang, Founder, Mimosa Ventures – A venture investor with sharp insights into early-stage funding trends and the realities facing today’s founders.
Emily Coskey, Associate, Wilson Sonsini – A legal advisor specializing in healthcare and life sciences, Emily offers perspective on current deal activity and what it signals for innovators and investors.
Moderator: Ayse McCracken, Founder, Ignite and General Partner, Ignite Health Ventures
This timely conversation will explore how bold founders and investors are navigating today’s realities, where the greatest risks and opportunities lie, and how collaboration and inclusive innovation can continue to drive progress forward.
Whether you’re building, investing in, or advancing healthcare innovation, this candid dialogue will deliver fresh perspective, practical insight, and a renewed sense of possibility.
Evening Schedule
🥂 5:00 PM – Cocktail Reception
🎤 5:45 PM – Panel Discussion
❓ 6:45 PM – Q&A
⭐ 7:00 PM – Thanks for coming!