On December 9^th, almost 300 key industry executives, leading academic scientists, entrepreneurs and investors gathered at the fifth Dutch Life Sciences Capitals 2009 to explore trends, innovations and business opportunities in the Dutch Life Sciences sector.

The development and growth of young innovative companies is dependent on their ability to attract investments, obtain partners and create international commercial and technical networks. The central theme of Life Sciences Capitals 2009 was Financing and Growth Strategies. Funding for early stage Life Sciences companies is difficult, especially in the current economic environment. What alternative ways are there for companies to raise capital? What are the most successful business models today? In this context, the impact of public-private partnerships on the growth of companies, innovation and entrepreneurship in Life Sciences was also discussed.

The programme featured:

Plenary sessions with keynote presentations addressing financing and growth strategies of Life Sciences companies, including the impact of public-private partnerships.

Four dedicated workshops with presentations from scientists, industry, emerging companies and patient organisations. The latest trends and developments in research, business strategies and financing models were discussed.

Investors forum offerering early stage companies excellent opportunities to present their company to all major Dutch Life Sciences investors and discuss their business strategy, technology directions and capital raising plan.

Business opportunities including licensing-in  and possibilities for starting up a company utilising technology, excellent support and seed financing from Dutch universities.

Networking opportunities during lunch, breaks and closing reception to find new research and business partners!

Information market with tabletop presentations from emerging companies, start-ups, research organisations and universities.

Click here to read the press release.