Missouri S&T’s Dr. Fateme Fayyazbakhsh, an emerging leader in medical technology innovation, earned the People’s Choice Award in the MedTech category at the 6th Annual Equalize Startups Culmination Pitch Event—a national showcase celebrating entrepreneurial excellence among women in academia.
Dr. Fayyazbakhsh, who recently joined Missouri S&T’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering as a new tenure-track assistant professor, was recognized for her dynamic pitch and forward-thinking MedTech innovation. Her winning pitch stood out among a highly competitive group of academic entrepreneurs, earning enthusiastic support from attendees across the innovation ecosystem.
“A lab prototype holds more than promise. It opens the path from discovery to shaping tomorrow,” says Dr. Fayyazbakhsh. “I’m honored to be part of a community that champions research-driven innovation and empowers women to bring their ideas to life.”
The Equalize Startups program brings together women faculty from across the nation to advance the commercialization of their research. Over several months, participants work closely with experienced mentors to refine their startup ideas and business plans, culminating in a live pitch event judged by venture capitalists, industry experts, and academic leaders.
Dr. Fayyazbakhsh’s award-winning pitch in the MedTech category highlights the important intersection of engineering and healthcare innovation—an area where Missouri S&T continues to make strategic investments.
This year’s Equalize event was a celebration of bold ideas and brilliant minds, powered by the dedication of mentors, judges, sponsors, and volunteer committees. Missouri S&T is proud to be part of a national movement committed to expanding opportunities for women in STEM and entrepreneurship.
About Equalize:
Equalize is a pitch competition and business development program designed to empower academic women entrepreneurs and accelerate the commercialization of their research. Learn more at equalizestartups.org.