UM BWMC Hosts Third Annual “SPARQ Tank” Innovation Competition, Awards Funding for Patient-Centered Projects
The University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center recently hosted its third annual “SPARQ Tank” competition, giving health care team members the opportunity to pitch innovative ideas aimed at improving patient outcomes and experience. ( Photo courtesy of BWMC/R. Hayes ) Modeled after the television show Shark Tank, the competition invites hospital staff—from clinical providers to administrative employees—to propose new technologies, practices, and care models. Selected participants can receive up to $50,000 in funding to bring their ideas to life. The initiative, which began in 2022, is fully funded through private donations to the Baltimore Washington Medical Center Foundation. According to UM BWMC President Kathy McCollum, this year’s competition highlighted the “creativity, passion and expertise” of staff, with a focus on advancing patient-centered care. Funding for the 2026 competition included a $50,000 contribution from Anne Arundel County phi...
