For the second consecutive year, the European Pavilion returns to BIO International Convention, the world’s leading biotech exhibition. Prior to the official commencement of the trade fair, we sat with Marcel Kaminstein, Senior Manager International Relations at BIO, for a quick fireside chat. Marcel talks about European innovations and shares highlights on what to expect in the flagship tradeshow.
As the biotech industry continues to be buffeted by an array of challenges, BIO is a proactive voice of and for science, given that this year’s inspirational theme is #StandUpForScience. What does this concept mean to you and how can biotech innovators contribute to advance healthcare?
Marcel: #StandUpForScience motivates individuals in the biotech sector for different reasons. I stand up for science-based trade diplomacy. It’s all about taking what inspires you to change the world for the better and aligning with your skill sets or opportunities, while taking a stance against those who wish to take an obstructive path. My career has been built on Building Bridges internationally between industry and government so that innovation can thrive, and this year at #BIO23 I plan to continue that work, so those who seek to find cures for diseases can continue their work with supporting governments.
What should the attendees expect at BIO 2023? Do you have a “must visit” area you would recommend?
Marcel: #BIO23 offers so much for everyone no matter their interest. Some major highlights would be the Keynote speakers, Sessions, the European Night Reception, APAC Summit, US Army Pavilion, Innovation Zone by NIH, Start-up Stadium and of course you can’t forget the Wednesday Reception with a special guest singer.
For the second consecutive year, Europe will have had a strong presence at the tradeshow. What added value does the European Pavilion bring to BIO 2023?
Marcel: The European Pavilion signals to the entire biotech industry its commitment to support the European innovation ecosystem especially from a Partnering perspective. This presence encourages start-up and mid-level enterprises to engage with international delegations that allow for truly cross-border innovation to take place throughout the year ahead.
From your personal standpoint, how can BIO help the European innovators overcome the barriers of internationalisation and forge strategic business partnerships in the US?
Marcel: 3 key strategic activities will help innovators, One-on-one Partnering facilitates rapid connections during the Convention, networking events create the environment to seize opportunities to forge bonds with potential partners, become a BIO Member giving access to a wealth of informative webinars, educational classes and events to help you successfully navigate the US business environment.
Any piece of advice that you would like to share with the European entrepreneurs, who will showcase their impactful solutions onsite
Marcel: Before arriving to BIO International Convention, have a strategic plan in place, structured yet flexible to allow for the impromptu opportunities that arise during your time in Boston. But its not just at Boston, make sure to have your pre and post-Convention plan in place. One way to really make a splash is to reach out to the Media in advance of the convention to ensure your press release includes highlights of why your company’s value proposition is unique.
BIO 2023 represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, biotechnology centres and related organisations across the United States and in more than 30 countries. It brings together a wide spectrum of life science and application, including drug discovery, biomanufacturing, genomics, biofuels, nanotechnology, and cell therapy.
Do not miss the opportunity to visit the European Pavilion at Boston Convention and Exhibition Center - Booth C-1911 and get ready to be impressed with the latest biotech solutions!
Find out more on the EIC Overseas Trade Fairs Programme 2.0 website and check the official delegation of exceptional SMEs to attend BIO 2023 here.
