Next Phase Newsletter

By Faith Patenaude, Investor Research Analyst, LSN

The upcoming RESI Boston conference on September 25, 2024, will feature a Diagnostics panel focused on advancements for personalized care and medicine. This panel, scheduled for 2:00 PM at The Westin Copley Place, brings together a distinguished group of investors to discuss the latest trends and opportunities in the diagnostics sector. The panel will explore investments in innovative diagnostics technologies, covering a wide range of areas including in vitro diagnostics (IVD), genomics, and precision medicine. Panelists will share insights on current areas of interest within the diagnostics field and discuss the challenges faced by companies in this competitive ecosystem. Key topics to be addressed include:

1. Current investment trends in diagnostics
2. Navigating the competitive landscape
3. Common red flags for investors
4. Examples of successful deals

The panel features experienced investors from various firms:

Bruce Cohen (Moderator) Venture Partner Xeraya Capital	Nat Brinn Partner VC23	Deborah Hemingway Managing Partner Ecphora Capital
Hannah Mamuszka Managing Partner 10Edison Capital	James Murray Partner ExSight Ventures	Soyoung Park General Partner 1004 Venture Partners

These experts will offer valuable advice to startups on successfully fundraising for their diagnostic technologies. They will discuss strategies for approaching and building relationships with relevant investors and ways to address developmental and regulatory hurdles. For entrepreneurs in the diagnostics space, this panel presents a unique opportunity to gain insights into investor perspectives and learn about the key milestones that can make their companies more attractive to potential funders. The discussion will likely touch on how advancements in diagnostics are driving personalized care and medicine forward, making this an essential session for anyone involved in this rapidly evolving field. The Diagnostics panel is part of the larger RESI conference series, with many interesting panels covering different investor types and investment sectors. For those interested in attending, RESI Boston 2024 will take place on September 25 at The Westin Copley Place, followed by two days of virtual partnering on September 26-27.

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.

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!

By Claire Jeong, Chief Conference Officer, Vice President of Investor Research, Asia BD, LSN

In the ever-evolving landscape of life sciences, fundraising is not just an option; it’s a necessity. CEOs in this sector must navigate a complex environment where access to capital can define the trajectory of their innovations. One of the most effective strategies for maximizing fundraising success is participating in global events that bring together key investors and decision-makers. The Redefining Early Stage Investments (RESI) events are premier platforms for life science startups. With RESI Boston on September 25, RESI London on December 4, and RESI JPM on January 14, 2025, this series presents a unique opportunity for CEOs.

The Importance of Global Reach

In the life sciences, the competition for funding is fierce, and operating within a confined regional market can limit opportunities. By expanding your search beyond local investors and tapping into the global arena, you significantly increase your chances of finding the right fit for your stage of development and innovative products. The RESI events are strategically designed to allow CEOs to engage with a diverse spectrum of investors from various geographic locations.

Attending both the Boston and London events and culminating with JPM in January allows you to cover critical markets—the East Coast of the U.S., Europe, and the West Coast—all within five months. This geographical breadth means you can connect with 50-60 qualified investors actively seeking investment opportunities in early-stage life sciences, increasing your chances of success.

Fundraising as a Numbers Game

At its core, fundraising is indeed a numbers game. The more potential investors you meet, the higher the likelihood of securing funding. The RESI events are structured to make sure you engage your outreach. With each event attracting a fresh group of investors, your networking efforts compound over time. This is unlike traditional fundraising approaches, where outreach may be static or limited to a single region.

Life Science Nation, the owner of RESI, has a proven track record of delivering diverse investors, ranging from angels and family offices to venture capitalists, private equity firms, and industry-specific players such as pharmaceutical and med tech investors. These investors increasingly leverage LSN’s global events to source new technology assets for their portfolios and product pipelines.

A Unique Lineup of Investors

The alignment of these three events within such a short period extends your reach and introduces you to an audience of investors tailored to your specific needs. The unique lineup of seasoned professionals at these events is precisely what early-stage companies require. This carefully curated access can distinguish between a successful fundraising round and an uphill battle.

CEOs in the life sciences sector must take advantage of the opportunities presented by the RESI events. Engaging with a global network increases visibility and access to critical funding sources. The following five months could very well determine the future trajectory of your company; make it count by attending RESI Boston, RESI London, and RESI JPM. The world of life science investment is waiting, and your next significant opportunity might be one conference away. Don’t miss your chance to take your innovations to the next level!

By Caitlin Dolegowski, Marketing Manager, LSN

As RESI Boston approaches, excitement is building for this hybrid conference taking place on September 25 at The Westin Copley Hotel, followed by virtual partnering on September 26-27. The partnering platform will open on August 19, allowing attendees to schedule both in-person and virtual meetings.

What distinguishes RESI is its focus on the life sciences sector. The Life Science Nation (LSN) Partnering Platform facilitates connections between startups and investors through a curated environment. Unlike traditional conferences where information about potential partners is limited, RESI provides detailed profiles derived from personal interviews with investors in the LSN network. This ensures that startups can engage with investors who are genuinely interested in their specific sector and stage of development.

The platform allows startups to filter their search based on various criteria, enabling efficient identification of the right investors. However, success in partnering requires proactive engagement. Companies that excel typically send over 100 meeting requests and follow up consistently, making a strong effort to establish connections.

To assist attendees, RESI will offer a free partnering tutorial next week, providing strategies to maximize their time at the conference:

• Thursday, August 22, 2024 1:00 PM-2:00 PM – Partnering Tutorial – Sign Up

As the partnering platform opens on August 19, startups should prepare early by crafting a thoughtful strategy and sending out meeting requests promptly. With the insights gained from the tutorial, attendees can enhance their chances of forming valuable partnerships.

In summary, RESI Boston is a unique opportunity for life science startups to connect with investors who can help propel their projects forward. Mark your calendars for August 19 and get ready to unlock new possibilities at RESI Boston.