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Igniting the Future
of Health
Next generation philanthropy
drives real change
By KAITLYN PETRY
HAVE YOU EVER wondered — what can I do?
The Igniters program by the University Hospital Foundation
invites the next generation of philanthropists to step into
a transformative role — where your voice, vision and vote
directly influence the future of health.
WHAT IS THE IGNITERS PROGRAM?
Each individual, couple, or corporate membership to the
Igniters involves a commitment of $10,000 over two years
($5,000 per year). By pooling these contributions, members help
create a powerful fund dedicated to advancing health-care
innovation. As a member, you’ll be invited to four immersive
experiences hosted by the Foundation and receive one vote
in the Annual Voting Experience. There, you’ll hear directly
from three project finalists and help decide how the Igniters’
collective funding will be allocated — giving you a meaningful
role in shaping the future of care through projects that align
with your values and have the potential for lasting impact.
2025 FINALIST PROJECTS: WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Each year, the Igniters program will centre around a theme
addressing critical health-care needs. In 2025, the spotlight is
on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainability: The Future of
Health. The finalists are:
AI-Powered Colonoscopy for IBD Patients,
Dr. Frank Hoentjen: Implementing an AI-driven
system to detect precancerous polyps during
colonoscopies, aiming to improve early diagnosis
and patient care.
AI-Based Stroke Detection Pilot Project,
Dr. Brian Buck: Developing an AI-assisted
diagnostic tool to identify stroke types before
hospital arrival, facilitating quicker treatment
and better outcomes for stroke patients.
AI-Powered Early Warning System for Cardiac
Arrest, Matthew Douma, CNS: Creating an
AI system to monitor in-hospital patients for
early signs of cardiac arrest, enabling timely
interventions and enhancing survival rates.
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“I believe in investing in the
future of health care, ensuring
those who work tirelessly
to care for others have the
support and the resources
they need. Supporting this
initiative is our way of
contributing to a healthier,
stronger community — one
where innovation and impact
go hand in hand.”
– Sahaj Chopra, inaugural member
of the Igniters
The annual voting experience
determines which of these
projects receives Igniters’
funding for the year.
Which would you choose?
See which project
won the Igniters
vote for 2025