MBC Invention Track Spotlight
The Michigan Business Challenge is a campus-wide, multi-round business plan competition where student teams have the opportunity to win cash prizes, gain feedback from leaders in the business community, and expand their business network. Twelve teams of students are one step closer to over $100,000. Meet these forward-thinking entrepreneurs in our MBC spotlight series.
Startup Description
Arbor Simulation is a medical education company aiming to improve patient care by advancing simulation through novel evidence-based training tools that support medical learners and practicing healthcare professionals. Dylan Rushton, MSE ’21 and Kiran Rushton, BBA ’22
What was the origin of this venture? How was the problem or opportunity discovered?
The team started after we had been working in medical simulation and realized that many conditions had no training tools. This created risks for patients and we wanted to help reduce that.
What do you think will be the long-term impact of launching your venture?
Long term, we should have clinicians who are more effective at certain techniques and procedures, lowering risks to patients and improving their level of care.
How did you form your team?
Dylan started the team and added Dr. Rooney for her expertise in medical simulation. Kiran joined the team later on once we needed further business experience.
How has participation in MBC helped move your venture forward?
MBC has driven our team to take a more robust analysis of our business plan. Additionally, the funding helps us launch our business more effectively.
What has been your biggest takeaway from the MBC experience (so far)?
It’s helpful to get all of your thoughts and plans fleshed out in documents. This allows us to more readily review our plans, get them reviewed by others, and avoid some mistakes before making them.
What are your plans following MBC? How would prize money help your venture?
Following MBC, our team will continue to use the other resources at Michigan. Post-graduation, our team will continue to work on this and are hoping to scale up our sales and manufacturing/distribution.
What advice do you have for other student entrepreneurs?
Give it a go! What’s the downside of you trying?
2022 Michigan Business Challenge Finals
Follow these innovative University of Michigan student startups on ZLI social media for the 2022 Michigan Business Challenge Finals on February 11. Cheer for your favorite team during the MBC final presentations and applaud the winners!