Innovation Day at HIMSS25 Europe offered a look at the highs and lows of healthcare innovation. This program included dynamic panels, founder stories, investor insights and the highly anticipated Startup Pitchfest, and addressed what it takes to build impactful health tech solutions in a complex healthcare ecosystem.

Members of the startup world discussed the emotional toll of startup failure and the personal values that sustain mission-driven leadership. Startups that focused on advancing AI-driven automation, workforce support tools, and home-based care delivery are gaining more traction as health systems seek to reduce strain and expand access.

The Startup Pitchfest, delivered in partnership with EIT Health, spotlighted emerging leaders: Saventic Health was awarded for its AI platform that accelerates rare disease diagnosis, while Feyenally was recognized for its smartphone-based eye self-exam tool, which addresses global gaps in eye care.

The day reinforced that true innovation is built on empathy, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the healthcare environment.