VSP Vision has opened applications for the 2026 VSP Vision Innovation Challenge, its third annual global competition aimed at advancing technology and solutions that improve the eyecare experience for both patients and providers. The initiative is hosted by the VSP Global Innovation Center in partnership with Vision Expo, Topcon Healthcare Inc., and Silicon Foundry.

This year’s program asks participants to address the question, “How might we enhance the eyecare experience to drive more value for patients and providers?” Finalists will take part in a four-week business development bootcamp in February 2026 before presenting their concepts on stage at Vision Expo in Orlando, FL, on March 13. Participants may also be considered for a potential $400,000 investment or a direct presentation opportunity with Topcon’s THINC Ventures. Applications will be accepted Dec. 1-14, with finalists announced in January.

Alongside the challenge, the VSP Global Innovation Center released “The Patient of the Future,” a new report examining how emerging technologies and shifting consumer expectations are reshaping health care. The report highlights growing interest in artificial intelligence-enabled wearables, at-home diagnostics, and personalized insights powered by patient-generated data.

According to survey findings, 58.7% of VSP Vision Care members currently use or are interested in wearable health technology, and 65.9% express interest in personalized health insights derived from their own data. The report also notes the increasing influence of clinicians on social platforms, which is changing how patients access information and engage with providers.

Additional details about the 2026 Innovation Challenge, including application criteria and timelines, are available here.