FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Jeff Karzen
April 28, 2026 (630) 230-3641 or jkarzen@spine.org
CHICAGO – The North American Spine Society (NASS) Innovation Summit will address spine and medical innovation on June 11-12 at Loews Chicago O’Hare in Rosemont, IL (near Chicago). The Summit, now in its second year, brings together surgeons, engineers, investors, entrepreneurs, MedTech, and other spine and medical professionals to network and collaborate about successfully bringing spine and other medical technologies to market.
“With very limited acquisitions, 95% of startups failing, and funding increasingly scarce, understanding the right pathway to success has never been more critical,” said Alyssa Huffman, CEO of Allumin8 and member of the Summit Planning Committee. “The NASS Innovation NetWORK Summit is designed to address these challenges head-on, serving as a unique collaboration focused on business design, achieving product-market fit, and bridging the gap from concept to commercialization.”
Attendees have the opportunity to hear from recognized leaders and pioneers in innovation who will help them discover their personal roadmap to success. A wide range of topics will be discussed at the Summit, including overcoming challenges, providing solutions and expert guidance through discussion forums, roundtable discussions, mentorship and spine pitch opportunities. Hear exclusive insights from top business executives and influential investors to take innovation ideas to the next level.
Day one provides a market overview and explores funding opportunities. Attendees will hear from Keynote Speaker Jeffrey Roh, MD, Chief Executive Officer of IntuitiveX, and a recognized leader in medical innovation who will speak on the topic, “From Brainstorm to Breakthrough: The Spine Surgeon’s Playbook for Building Scalable Innovation.”
Day two will focus on securing your IP, monetizing your product and gaining market access. Attendees can also make an innovation pitch to a team of experts who will provide immediate feedback.
In addition to the wide range of education sessions, participants will have ample opportunities for networking and collaborating with others in the spine and MedTech industry. Summit registration and housing is currently open, and limited seating ensures attendees can maximize networking opportunities. To learn more about the Innovation Summit, meeting program and registration information, visit www.spine.org/INS.
NASS is a global multidisciplinary medical organization dedicated to fostering the highest quality, ethical, evidenced-based and value-based spine care by promoting education, research and advocacy. NASS is comprised of nearly 8,000 members from several disciplines, including orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, physiatry, radiology, anesthesiology, research and physical therapy. For more information, visit www.spine.org, NASS’ Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn channels.
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