Supplement: Navigating the Network

Navigating the Network RELATED ARTICLES Growth and Development A Region Poised for (More) Growth Big-City Excitement Meets Country Charm Where Do We Go from Here? The Greater Philadelphia region is well-known for its rich asset base. Through the end of 2004, this base included 54,500 people employed in the core life sciences and 327,000 employed in related sectors. With more than 400 companies in the region related to life science, finding your next partner could be a daunting task as, at the moment, there is no one "clubhouse" where participants congregate. Nonetheless, there are organizations, events, consortiums, and even a searchable, expanding life science directory that offer opportunities for potential partners to connect. Here are just a few to get you started. The Greater Philadelphia Life Sciences Guide (www.look4science.com) You may want to start your search with this Internet directory, which lists the names, brief summaries, and contact information for the region's life science companies, specialized industry service providers (contract research, manufacturing, research, and more), associations, investment and funding sources, and economic development partners. The guide is a collaborative regional initiative, developed by Select Greater Philadelphia, BioAdvance, and the University City Keystone Innovation Zone, and it is supported by many of the region's partners. The Greater Philadelphia Bioinformatics Alliance (www.gpba-bio.com) This is a consortium of regional research and academic organizations, which regional leaders formed to create a multi-institutional center of excellence in bioinformatics. One of its objectives is to forge connections between academia and industry by providing shared learning and communication experiences. It also creates opportunities for continuing education and workforce development in bioinformatics-related fields. One of these opportunities is the group's Spring Retreat, where internationally known academic and industry leaders present cutting-edge research. Philly BioBreak (www.phillybiobreak.com) The brainchild of Goeffrey Meyerson, director of business development for Zelos Therapeutics, and Patrick Lee, associate of Quaker Bioventures, Philly BioBreak is a new organization where professionals of the biotech and pharmaceutical industries gather informally from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm once every other month at a Philadelphia-area location. Over complimentary appetizers and drinks provided by investor, industry, and service provider sponsors, members come to network, source new business leads, and learn about other companies in the area. Check out the list of former attendees on the group's Web site, and find out how to become a member. Mid-Atlantic Capital Conference (www.macalliance.com/conference/index.asp) You're likely to meet angel investors, venture and private equity fund representatives, and service providers at this annual event, hosted by the Mid-Atlantic Capital Alliance. The conference has been billed as the premier venture gathering in the Mid-Atlantic region. To date, 10,000 professionals have attended for networking and visibility opportunities as well as to hear speakers, panels, and presentations. New Jersey Technology Council (www.njtc.org) The council's tagline is "Connecting companies, capital, and government," so it's no surprise that frequent (about 100 per year) networking, informational, and educational events (such as cyber suppers) are among the services NJTC offers to its 1200 member companies. It also provides access to financing sources, an employee recruitment network, and peer group opportunities. Multiple technology sectors are represented in the council's membership, including life sciences. BioNJ, formerly the Biotechnology Council of New Jersey (www.bionj.org) Five of the 11 counties in the Greater Philadelphia region are situated in New Jersey. In September 2007, the Biotechnology Council of New Jersey announced its new name, BioNJ, and identity for its 220-member organization. Current president Debbie Hart helped found the original organization with several biotechnology CEOs in 1994. From dinners to biocruises, BioNJ provides numerous opportunities for networking and advancing the growth of the life sciences in the Greater Philadelphia region, and beyond. Delaware BioScience Association (www.delawarebio.org) One of the 11 counties in the Greater Philadelphia region is New Castle County, home to AstraZeneca, the Delaware Biotechnology Institute, the University of Delaware, and DuPont. Officially formed in 2006, the Delaware BioScience Association is one of the 35 state affiliates of the Biotechnology Industry Organization. One of its primary goals is to facilitate the development of strategic partnerships among state and regional pharmaceutical companies, biotech companies, medical device companies, research institutions, and agricultural interests. Pennsylvania Bio (www.pennsylvaniabio.org) Five of the 11 counties in the Greater Philadelphia region fall within Pennsylvania's borders. Opportunities for networking and for "targeted introductions" to participants in the bioscience continuum are an integral part of what this organization is all about. From its own PA Bio event to smaller, more focused workshops, the group's mission is to help develop a cohesive community that unites the region's biotechnology, pharmaceutical, research, and financial strengths. Take time to peruse the organization's extensive Web site.

Supplement: Navigating the Network

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