Why is SDSC a Non-Profit?

Surgical innovation thrives on collaboration, and at the core of successful partnerships is trust. When pioneering a transformative technology, the question for many is not just what the innovation can do, but who it benefits. For surgeons, researchers, and hospitals, partnering with organizations that prioritize unified progress over profit is vital. As such, SDSC was founded as a non-profit to align its mission with the global surgical community and to ensure that its work serves just that.

As a non-profit, SDSC fosters an ecosystem of transparency and trust. Surgeons and researchers can be assured that their contributions – whether in the form of data, time, or expertise – are not being leveraged for private profit. Instead, this conjunctive effort fuels a pursuit to make surgery safer for all. By prioritizing trust and effectiveness over commercialization, SDSC cultivates an environment where surgeons feel confident sharing their knowledge and expertise, knowing that their efforts will ultimately benefit their patients.

SDSC’s work is funded by donors who believe in a vision where Artificial Intelligence (AI) can make surgery safer and more available worldwide. Recognized by the U.S. government as a 501(c)(3) Medical Research Organization (MRO), our designation enables us to collaborate seamlessly with non-profit hospitals and academic institutions. Together, we form a thriving ecosystem of shared innovation that accelerates progress in surgical research and education. Being a non-profit also ensures that we attract the most dedicated, passionate, and mission-driven people to join our team!

The more surgeons and researchers we bring into our fold, the greater the collective impact. As a non-profit, SDSC unites its funders, users, and partners under a shared objective. This alignment ensures that the benefits of participation extend to the global community, and not to a few profit-seeking shareholders. 

Beyond technological advancement, we’re building a worldwide network where surgeons can share insights, refine techniques, and revolutionize the practice of surgery together. Every surgeon who joins our platform strengthens the collective, and each contribution amplifies the impact of our work. At SDSC, we believe in the power of collaboration to transform surgery. By choosing to operate as a non-profit, we’ve built an environment where trust, transparency, and shared goals drive innovation. But we cannot do it alone! 

If you share our vision for global healthcare equity, click here to donate, and join us in creating a world where every surgeon has the tools and knowledge to deliver the best possible care!

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