Inside the NSF IMPACT Engine: Driving Musculoskeletal Innovation and Economic Growth in Indiana
Indiana University’s selection for the prestigious National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Innovation Engine grant marks a historic milestone for the state’s life sciences ecosystem. This panel session brings together core architects and partners of the NSF IMPACT Engine to share the inside story of how an unprecedented coalition of over 170 academic, clinical, and corporate partners united to secure this landmark funding.
More importantly, the discussion will map out actionable pathways for local businesses, economic developers, and entrepreneurs to plug directly into this ecosystem. Discover how your organization can benefit from the Engine’s ambitious mandates to provide direct company assistance, launch over 85 new startups, and commercialize 30+ medical innovations over the next decade. Whether you are an established industry leader looking to scale, an early-stage founder seeking technical resources, or a community stakeholder, learn how this massive economic driver will accelerate your growth and transform musculoskeletal care globally.
Welcome
Dan Lewallen, Ph.D. Partner, Barnes & Thornburg
Moderator
Kristin Jones, President and CEO, IN Life Sciences Association
Panel
Melissa Kacena, Ph.D., Director, Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health, Indiana University School of Medicine
Timothy Ryan, Ph.D., Vice President Outcomes Research Diabetes and Metabolic Research, Lilly Research Laboratories
Greg Merrell, MD, Clinical Lead and Founder InTen Orthopedics, Partner, OrthoIndy, and Partner, Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center