Partnering with Pharma Panel at RESI Boston: A Gateway for Startups

August 22, 2024August 22, 2024 ~ Next Phase Admin ~ Leave a comment

By Momo Yamamoto, Investor Research Analyst, LSN

The Partnering with Pharma panel at RESI Boston is set to be an enlightening session for startups and investors. It will focus on the critical intersection between innovative therapeutics and big pharmaceutical companies. As the industry increasingly seeks external sources for groundbreaking therapies, this panel will delve into the strategies and processes that major pharmaceutical players employ to identify and evaluate early-stage assets.

Partnering with Pharma Panel Speakers

Gauri Nair Senior Director Business Development AbCellera (Moderator)	Fabrizio Conicella Head COI&C, Center of Open Innovation & Competence Chiesi	Neel Desai Executive Director, Business Development & Licensing Biogen
Asli Sahin Search & Evaluation, Neuroscience, Sr. Manager, Strategy Leadership Program AbbVie	Deepa Talpade Head of BD&L, Oncology and Radiology Bayer	Joshi Venugopal Head of Region Europe, Novartis Gene Therapy & Rare Diseases, Senior VP Novartis

Key Topics of Discussion

The panel will cover several essential aspects of the pharma-startup relationship. One of the focal points will be how pharma companies source promising early-stage assets. The discussion will likely explore various strategies, including participation in conferences and pitch events, forming academic partnerships, and utilizing advanced technologies like AI and data analytics to identify potential candidates. Another critical topic will be these companies’ evaluation process when assessing potential acquisitions or partnerships. Panelists will share insights into their due diligence procedures, the criteria they use to gauge scientific validity and market potential, and the frameworks they employ for risk assessment. The conversation will also touch on the specific therapeutic areas and technologies that currently pique the interest of big pharma. Understanding these areas is invaluable for startups looking to align their research and development efforts with industry demand. Furthermore, the panel will address how early in the development process pharmaceutical companies are willing to engage with startups, discussing opportunities for pre-clinical partnerships, seed funding initiatives, and involvement in incubator and accelerator programs.

Practical Advice for Startups

A significant benefit of this panel will be the practical advice offered to startups on effectively pitching their assets to big pharma. Panelists will guide tailoring presentations to align with specific company interests, demonstrating clear value propositions, and proactively addressing potential concerns that may arise during discussions.

Industry Trends and Future Outlook

With a diverse lineup of panelists representing major companies, attendees can expect a comprehensive view of current trends within the pharmaceutical industry. The discussion will likely cover emerging therapeutic modalities, the shifting regulatory landscape, and the growing impact of AI and machine learning on drug discovery.

The Partnering with Pharma panel at RESI Boston promises to be a valuable resource for startups navigating the complex landscape of pharmaceutical partnerships. By offering insider knowledge on how big pharma approaches early-stage assets, this session will equip attendees with the insights needed to successfully position their innovations in a competitive market. With expert perspectives from industry leaders, the panel is poised to illuminate the path forward for startups seeking to make their mark in the ever-evolving world of therapeutics.

Mastering the Art of Fundraising: Essential Strategies for Startups

August 22, 2024August 22, 2024 ~ Next Phase Admin ~ Leave a comment

By Dennis Ford, Founder and CEO of Life Science Nation

Understanding the nuances of startup fundraising is crucial in the competitive landscape. Many startups overlook the fact that they are navigating a space governed by capital investors and licensing partners. To succeed, it’s imperative to not only be innovative but also grasp what these partners are seeking. Here are some essential strategies to enhance your fundraising efforts.

Understand the Investor’s Perspective

One of the most common pieces of feedback from investors is the need for startups to make it easy for them to say “yes” to a meeting. This begins with thorough preparation and research. Knowing potential partners’ interests, portfolios, and investment criteria can increase your chances of securing a meeting. Please clearly explain how your objectives align with their focus areas when you reach out. A well-prepared approach boosts your credibility and sets the stage for a productive conversation.

Prepare for a Long-Term Campaign

Fundraising is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Many startups may feel ready for a thirty-minute pitch but fail to grasp that a successful fundraising campaign can span 12 to 18 months. This process requires a substantial investment of time and resources. Be prepared to travel to conferences, leverage service providers, and engage in strategic networking. Additionally, having a solid financial plan to sustain operations during this period is essential. Complaining about being cash-strapped can be a significant red flag for investors, so exploring all avenues to secure the necessary funds is crucial.

Develop a Compelling Narrative

A well-crafted narrative can be one of your most powerful tools in fundraising. Clearly define your problem, outline your unique approach, and explain how your solution stands out from the competition. When you present a compelling story alongside hard data, you create a more persuasive pitch that captivates potential investors. This combination informs, inspires, and motivates them to invest in your vision.

Build a Strong Advisory Board

It would be great if you established a robust advisory board composed of experienced professionals in your industry. These advisors can provide invaluable insights and connections that facilitate the fundraising process. Engaging seasoned professionals who understand the landscape helps navigate the complexities of capital fundraising, ensuring you are better prepared to meet your goals.

You Need to Invest Cash in the Process

Finally, it’s important to recognize that successful fundraising often requires a significant financial investment. Startups should be prepared to allocate up to $100,000 per year just for fundraising activities. This investment is crucial for sustaining operations and exploring funding opportunities, even those outside your comfort zone. Early-stage life science companies must get the basics right to secure the necessary funding for growth.

Attention International Companies in Boston the Week of September 23rd – LSN Is Hosting a Soft-Landing Event at The CIC in Kendall Square

August 22, 2024August 22, 2024 ~ Next Phase Admin ~ Leave a comment

By Greg Mannix, VP, EMEA Business Development, LSN

On September 24th, 2024, Life Science Nation (LSN) is offering an exclusive opportunity for RESI Boston attendees and other international companies in Boston that week to gain invaluable insights into the world-renowned Boston-Cambridge life science hub. This free, pre-conference event, titled “Landing Your Company in the Boston Life Science Ecosystem,” is specifically designed to help companies tap into the resources of this thriving ecosystem and establish a strong presence in the US market. Space is limited and registrations will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.

Event Details

Date and Time: September 24th, 2024, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: CIC Cambridge, 5th Floor, One Broadway, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free for RESI Boston attendees and other international companies in Boston during Boston Biotech Week – Sign Up Here

For more information please contact us at RESI@LifeScienceNation.com.

The day will conclude with a networking reception, providing an excellent opportunity for participants to connect with industry leaders, potential partners, and fellow innovators.

Attending this informative session will allow participants to gain firsthand insights from key players in the Boston-Cambridge life science ecosystem. Experts will share their knowledge about what makes this area unique and how companies can effectively leverage their resources for growth and success.

For international companies looking to establish a presence in the United States, this event is particularly valuable. It offers crucial information on entering the US life science market through one of its most prominent hubs. Attendees will learn how to navigate the landscape, optimize resources, and tap into the vast opportunities available in the Boston-Cambridge area.

The Boston-Cambridge region is globally recognized as a powerhouse in life sciences, characterized by a dense concentration of world-class research institutions and hospitals, a robust network of venture capital firms and investors, and access to top-tier talent from renowned universities. The collaborative ecosystem here fosters innovation and growth, making it an ideal environment for companies at all stages of development.

This pre-RESI event is an excellent opportunity to kickstart your experience at RESI Boston with valuable insights into one of the world’s most dynamic life science ecosystems. For more information or to register, please contact resi@lifesciencenation.com. Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your company’s presence in the thriving Boston life science community!

Hot Investor Profile: Taiwan VC Seeks to Invest Up to $10M in Pre-Series A to Series B Companies In Intersection of Technology and Life Sciences

August 22, 2024 ~ Next Phase Admin ~ Leave a comment

A venture capital firm headquartered in Taiwan is firm overall is focused on investing in biotech and tech-related companies such as AI, biotech, medical device, pharma, fintech, semiconductors, smart manufacturing, etc. The firm is stage agnostic, however, within life science and healthcare, the firm is also focusing on early-stage companies from Pre-Series A to Series B. Typical check sizes range from $1M-10M, although usually it will be $3M-5M to start. The firm participates in co-investing, but 60-70% of the time, the firm will lead. The firm is looking at companies in the U.S., Japan, Taiwan, and Central Eastern Europe, with the goal of creating a cross-border ecosystem that helps healthcare and biotech companies thrive. The firm is also willing to help later-stage companies with commercialization and connect with Taiwanese partners and key players in the U.S.

The firm invests in fundamental science driven companies with a technology focus. The main sectors the company focuses on is chronic disease management/treatment, AI and/or digital health, and service-based companies. Main indication areas include oncology, metabolic diseases, and autoimmune diseases, however indication areas are not limited to those listed. The firm is also open to orphan diseases, however, it has to be a platform that addresses orphan diseases to validate the technology. The firm looks at in-development and clinical stages as well as pre-approval, but they may not be interested in very early stages. For drugs, the firm requires proof of biology with an established animal model data.

The firm may invest in young teams to grow with them, however most of the time, the firm prefers companies to have an experienced team in place. The firm also requires taking a board seat, if not, at least an observer seat.

If you are interested in more information about this investor and other investors tracked by LSN, please email salescore@lifesciencenation.com.

Hot Investor Profile: Europe-Based Life Sciences VC Invests Up to €10M in Therapeutics and Medical Device Companies in North America and Europe

August 22, 2024 ~ Next Phase Admin ~ Leave a comment

A venture capital firm based in Europe is solely focused on life sciences. The firm had a recent close on their fourth fund and is actively looking for new investments, usually in Series A & B rounds. Typically, the firm allocates €8M-€10M over the life of the investment with about half of that amount in the initial investment. The firm primarily invests in companies that are based in Europe, but will also consider opportunities in North America with more of a focus on the U.S.

The firm invests primarily in biotech therapeutics and medical devices. For biotech, the firm invests in pre-clinical up unto phase II assets. For medical devices, the firm prefers companies with initial clinical proof-of-concept up unto reaching regulatory approval, whether that be PMA or 510(k) approval. The firm is not evaluating diagnostic technologies for the current fund. The firm is generally agnostic in terms of subsectors and indications with the primary focus on products that address clear unmet opportunities. Historically, the firm has invested in biotech therapeutics that address a wide variety of inflammatory, orphan, respiratory, autoimmune, infectious and cardiovascular disorders. Medical device investments have included a non-active implantable device for pulmonary embolism, as well as devices for renal and cardiovascular and peripheral vascular diseases.

The firm requests a board seat in each portfolio company. The firm seeks a company with a strong and experienced management team or technical experts in the relevant technology.

If you are interested in more information about this investor and other investors tracked by LSN, please email salescore@lifesciencenation.com.

Hot Investor Profile: US and Asia-Based VC Firm With US and Asia Offices Seeks to Invest in Seed to Series A Companies Across All Healthcare Sectors

August 22, 2024 ~ Next Phase Admin ~ Leave a comment

A venture capital firm founded in 2018 with offices in US and Asia. The firm invests in mainly Seed and Series A rounds, however, the firm is not stage-focused or valuation sensitive as their core focus is in return opportunities. The firm has around a 70-person global investment team that focuses on healthcare, consumer, enterprise, frontier, fintech, and more. The firm invests globally, acting as a co-investor, making about 2-5 new portfolio investments each quarter and about 2-5 follow-on investments each quarter. Initial check sizes go up to $1M USD.

As the firm is a generalist fund in terms of healthcare, the firm is looking for transformative technologies that shape the future.

The firm values the founder’s vision to solve the most painful problems from the root cause with cost-effective solutions that can benefit large populations.

If you are interested in more information about this investor and other investors tracked by LSN, please email salescore@lifesciencenation.com.

Hot Investor Profile: VC Firm With Offices in US and Europe Actively Invests in Innovative Drug Development Companies Across All Therapeutic Areas

August 22, 2024 ~ Next Phase Admin ~ Leave a comment

A healthcare-dedicated venture capital fund with offices in US and Europe is managed by a team of seasoned venture managers and entrepreneurs. The fund will make early-stage equity investments in preclinical and clinical-stage drug development companies. The investment size of the fund will range between USD 5-30 million per company. The fund prefers to invest in European-based companies, but exceptional opportunities in the US will also be considered. The fund has had its first closing and is actively seeking new investment opportunities.

The firm is seeking to invest in innovative drug development companies. The fund has a special interest in biologics and is open to all indications including orphan indications. Generics, reformulations or second-use products (“micro-innovation”) are not part of the investment strategy.

The firm is looking for companies with a strong and qualified management team or technical experts in the relevant technology.

If you are interested in more information about this investor and other investors tracked by LSN, please email salescore@lifesciencenation.com.