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First BIOTECH SUMMIT AUSTRIA paves the way for emerging biotech innovation in Central Europe

A historic event for the Austrian and international biotechnology community took place on October 13.10th. 2023 the 1st BIOTECH SUMMIT AUSTRIA in Graz comes to an end after two days of content-rich discussions and networking.
The event, which was jointly organized by BIOTECH AUSTRIA, the pioneering association of the biotechnology industry in Austria, and the dynamic Styrian life science cluster organization Human.technology Styria, left a lasting impression on the industry.

The decision to hold the summit in Graz was based on the considerable expertise and prominent players in the research and corporate landscape in Styria, which is home to a dynamic biotech community with a large number of companies.

Lejla Pock, Managing Director of Human.technology Styria, was satisfied with the results of the event and said: “We are pleased that, together with Biotech Austria, we have managed to organize this groundbreaking event and put Styrian biotechnology in the spotlight. This summit embodies our shared commitment to innovation and collaboration in the biotechnology industry. The diverse program featured numerous keynotes, panels and workshops with a notable list of speakers. We are excited about the contacts made, the insights gained and the positive impact this event will have on the future of biotechnology in our country.”

Peter Llewellyn Davies, President of BIOTECH AUSTRIA, reflected on the importance of this first summit and said: “The Biotech Summit Austria is a unique platform that brings together the key players in the industry to discuss the latest trends and developments in biotechnology and other closely related technologies. The innovative biotechnology sector in Austria is thriving and this event was perfect to bring our industry together, inform and support its growth.”

The biotechnology industry in Austria is going through an exciting phase and the summit came at exactly the right time to meet the needs of this rapidly growing industry. The program covered the biotech vision of major pharmaceutical companies, funding and financing opportunities for start-ups and established companies, a comprehensive look at the regulatory framework for clinical trials and the impact of AI. The participants included international venture capitalists such as Wellington Partners, Hadean Ventures and Gateway Ventures as well as well-known pharmaceutical companies (including Novartis, Lundbeck, Abbvie and MSD).

The summit exceeded expectations with more than 200 participants from ten countries, a diverse supporting program including career sessions, start-up pitches and extensive networking opportunities. The conference was accompanied by a gala dinner followed by a celebration in an impressive event location - embedded in the Schlossberg in the heart of Graz.

Peter Llewellyn-Davies concluded: “It is clear to us that this summit has set the stage for future conferences. The Austrian biotechnology industry is eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to come together, collaborate and advance the world of biotechnology together.” Lejla Pock added: “We are pleased that we have received only positive feedback from everyone involved and have been encouraged to continue this format in the future .”

Photographic impressions of the 1st BIOTECH SUMMIT AUSTRIA

Photos from Robert Illemann