CNS Innovation Institute

Overview

APPLY BY JUNE 30 >

The CNS Innovation Institute is a premier initiative of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons designed to identify, develop, and accelerate the next generation of neurosurgical innovation. A first-of-its-kind initiative with neurosurgery, the Institute will foster the growth of neurosurgical innovators and leaders to promote novel inventions to advance care for our neurosurgical patients. Through a highly selective fellows program and an immersive educational experience, I² brings together neurosurgeons, industry leaders, and innovators to translate ideas into meaningful clinical and commercial endeavors.  Applications close June 30, 2026.

CNS Innovation Institute 

The CNS I² is a new, integrated pathway aligning young neurosurgical investigators with experienced innovators in a structured, two-year longitudinal pathway supported by educational cohorts, mentorship, and real-world engagement. The program supports neurosurgeons pursuing innovation, from early ideas through development, funding, and implementation. Fellows participate in a two-year development pathway focused on moving ideas toward viable solutions. Engagement includes in-person and virtual touchpoints, supported by senior neurosurgeon innovators and industry experts.

Following a call for applications, selected fellows will engage in quarterly sessions designed to grow their innovation from concept to reality. Touch points will include >>> 

1. Neuro Innovate x CNS Innovation Institute
1. CNS I² will meet prior to Neuro Innovate
2. Half-day of didactics from industry-leading neurosurgeons and industry leadership
3. Second half-day will feature a “Shark Tank” style pitch from the fellows
4. Top innovations will be considered for Innovator of the Year Finalists
2. CNS Annual Meeting innovation programming (including Transforming Neurosurgery through Technology (TNT) sessions)
1. Didactics focused on iterative innovation development & funding
2. Fellows are expected to attend all Innovation Track content throughout the annual meeting
3. Innovator of the Year Competition to be held at the General Scientific Session
3. Longitudinal virtual programming: Focus on innovation development, funding, commercialization
1. Fellows will be paired with sponsoring industry partners that align with fellow and industry strategic goals for individualized mentorship
4. Curated corporate/industry visits: Fellows will continue innovation development with engineers and research scientists at their specific industry partner’s HQ
1. Specific industry partner's HQ as well as at academic innovation incubators

From Insight to Impact

Neurosurgery is at a critical inflection point, and many early- and mid-career neurosurgeons are uniquely positioned to advance the field but lack the experience and connection to make this a reality. Advances in technology, data, and care delivery demand closer collaboration between clinicians and industry to foster growth and development.

The CNS Innovation Institute:

• Bridges the gap between clinical insight and commercial execution
• Accelerates adoption of meaningful technologies
• Develops innovation leaders within neurosurgery
• Creates a structured pathway from idea to impact

CNS is the Leader in Neurosurgical Innovation

The Innovation Institute reinforces CNS’s role as the premier organization forging education, collaboration, and forward-thinking leadership—ensuring neurosurgery remains at the forefront of medical innovation.

Get Involved

We invite select corporate partners to join us in shaping the future of neurosurgical care.

Apply Today

The CNS continues to develop educational programs at the CNS Annual Meeting, novel courses, online courses, and scholarship programs in Data Science.