This challenge,  hosted by Johnson & Johnson MedTech, aims to develop AI technologies that enhance surgical decision-making, improve data management and governance, and increase surgical efficiency in the connected operating room..The program provides selected innovators with grant funding up to $100,000, mentorship from J&J experts, and potential access to computing tools and AI development resources.

The challenge is open to researchers and innovators worldwide working in Surgical Data Science, particularly in areas like soft tissue surgery, colorectal, bariatric, thoracic, urology, gynecology, and general surgery. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and awardees are announced quarterly through the end of 2026. Learn more here.