STRATEGIC FOCUS AREAS

1. Research and Innovation

The Initiative catalyzes cross-disciplinary research that translates knowledge into solutions improving health outcomes and system performance.

Focus areas:

• Scaling Science and Innovation for Impact — accelerating the design and commercialization of scalable health solutions through partnerships with Pitt’s MDI (Multidisciplinary Innovations group), Innovation Institute (a part of Pitt’s Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship), Innovation Works, and regional startups.
• Patient Engagement and Access —This research focuses on enhancing patient engagement, and designing interventions that reduce barriers to access.
• Health Systems Management — advancing operational excellence, financial sustainability, and patient-centered care.
• AI, Technology, and Human Well-Being — exploring how emerging technologies improve quality of life, accessibility, and equity.
• Leadership, Change Management, and Effective Teamwork — Research on understanding and implementing leadership, change management and teamwork approaches in healthcare and life sciences organizations. 

By uniting scholars, clinicians, technologists, and entrepreneurs, the Initiative establishes Pitt as a national model for translating research into measurable impact.

2. Regional Economic Development and Impact

Anchored in Pittsburgh’s world-class health and innovation ecosystem, the Initiative unites academia, industry, and community partners to accelerate inclusive regional growth.

Through strategic collaboration with university and regional partners the Initiative:

• Drives venture creation and commercialization of health innovations
• Strengthens regional talent pipelines through integrated education and training
• Stimulates investment and economic renewal in health and technology sectors

Together, these efforts position Western Pennsylvania as a national model for post-industrial transformation through health-driven innovation.

3. Education and Workforce Development

The Initiative builds on Pitt Business’s academic foundation to develop future-ready leaders who operate at the intersection of health, business, and technology.

Programs integrate leadership, operations, finance, strategy, and marketing with health systems understanding—preparing professionals to lead in a rapidly changing health economy through:

• Stackable business+health certificates for undergraduates and graduates
• Dual and joint degree programs with the health sciences
• Experiential learning collaborations with regional partners
• Summer academies and micro-credentials for early talent development
• Executive and professional education for current leaders

Together, these efforts will create a robust, interdisciplinary talent pipeline that fuels the region’s health innovation ecosystem.

4. Opportunities for Collaboration with Community Partners

The Business for Health Initiative will collaborate with community partners seeking to advance health, innovation, and prosperity. Opportunities include:

• Sponsoring research and innovation projects that translate discovery into practice
• Co-designing curricula and experiential learning to meet emerging workforce needs
• Building talent pipelines through internships, fellowships, and recruitment partnerships
• Investing in community programs that strengthen regional resilience and inclusion

Through collaborations with regional health systems, tech companies, and startups, participants will gain hands-on experience in venture creation, data analytics, digital health strategy, and responsible innovation—building the skills that employers increasingly demand. This approach ensures that Western Pennsylvania not only retains top talent but also becomes a magnet for new innovators, driving long-term regional prosperity and resilience.

SUMMARY

The Business for Health Initiative unifies Pitt’s strengths in education, research, and innovation to improve health outcomes and economic vitality through business innovation and leadership.

By leveraging Pittsburgh’s ecosystem and Pitt’s academic excellence, it redefines how business schools engage with the world of health—fostering innovation, advancing knowledge, transforming practice, and building a healthier, more prosperous future for all.