Innovation in PF

12 months

PROGRAM TERM

MATTER, an incubator hub

ORGANIZATION

The Innovation Challenge is one of Three Lakes Foundation’s strategies for accelerating innovation in a space that has not seen significant advances occurring in decades. Three Lakes Foundation is dedicated to finding new solutions in the areas of care, diagnostics, oxygen, and therapies.

Through a collaboration with MATTER, an incubator hub located in Chicago, they have executed the PF Innovation Challenge, inviting more than 200 cutting-edge startups from around the world, working together with dozens of hospitals, health systems, universities, and industry-leading companies to uncover new approaches to therapy.

In 2020, the PF Innovation Challenge received 49 submissions globally. With the help of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Foundation (COPD) and Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF), the challenge incubated 12 finalists to prepare for the final pitch day where four solutions were awarded.

Improving Timely Diagnosis

Timely and accurate diagnosis for Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs) remains a challenge despite scientific advancements and increased information sharing online.

Time to Diagnosis and Earlier Detection

PF is a progressive and fatal lung disease. Most patients are referred to pulmonary physicians and other experts late in the course of their disease.

Influence of Inhaled Exposures in PF

Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs) are associated with inhaled environmental and occupational exposures, including air pollution, second-hand smoke, vapors, gases, dusts, and fumes.