The Ophthalmology Innovation Summits facilitate meaningful interactions and the exchange of information between clinical, capital and corporate leaders to accelerate the development and commercialization of novel therapies to address unmet needs. The Ophthalmology Innovation Summit (OIS) was conceptualized and developed by ophthalmologist/venture capitalist Emmett Cunningham of Clarus Funds now Blackstone Life Sciences. To make his vision for OIS a reality, Emmett enrolled legendary venture capitalists, Bill Link of Versant Ventures/Flying L Partners to Co-Chair the summits. The addition of experienced conference producer, Craig Simak brought the event to life in 2009. Since then, the OIS franchise has expanded to precede several ophthalmic and optometric societies and unites thousands of industry and clinical leaders each year.