"In a time of remarkable discovery and progress, the biotechnology industry stands at the forefront of a revolution changing how we live, heal, and care.

Now is the time to harness our collective talents, push the boundaries of what’s possible, and work toward a future where every community benefits from the progress we create. As global citizens, we share the responsibility not just to imagine a better future but to build it together.

The world can’t wait for BIO 2025."

The #BIO2025 International Convention (powered by @IAmBiotech) is less than a week away! Meet with @NovateurBio team at the world's largest #biotech gathering in Boston on June 16–19. #TheWorldCantWait for what begins at BIO—let’s create something impactful together!… pic.twitter.com/PTdnWoCH7g

— Novateur Ventures (@NovateurBio) June 11, 2025

Join Life Sciences British Columbia for the 10th Annual Access to Innovation conference. This premier full-day gathering welcomes life sciences leaders and trailblazers from academia, research, health institutions, government, and industry to engage in insightful discussions on the ever-evolving trends, developments, and policies shaping British Columbia’s thriving sector.

We’ve reached a critical juncture in the life sciences sector in BC. With BC’s first Life Sciences and Biomanufacturing strategy launched almost two years ago, the question arises, what now? It’s time to double down on the significant progress made and propel our sector forward, making a lasting economic impact with innovations to better the lives of patients for years to come.

This year’s programming will focus on the theme “Empowering innovation, transforming health, shaping tomorrow.” Stakeholders across the sector will engage in dynamic, multifaceted presentations and discussions to enhance collective knowledge that enables sector advancement.

This premier conference is the largest and most informative health care investment symposium in the industry which connects global industry leaders, emerging fast-growth companies, innovative technology creators and members of the investment community. 

Novateur & BIO's Guide to JPM 2025 App Download

The Novateur and BIO's app offers comprehensive details and registration for satellite events at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco. Users can share events, add them to their calendar, and access directions for in-person events. 

From the organizer: 

Join us on September 10, 2024, as we celebrate excellence in life sciences at the 26th Annual Life Sciences BC Awards, presented by Farris. This distinguished occasion brings together British Columbia’s vibrant life sciences community to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our peers and recognize the tireless efforts of those who have devoted their careers to advancing health innovations.

We continue to be home to Canada’s fastest-growing life sciences sector. As the sector matures, there are companies committed to anchoring here and building BC’s life sciences ecosystem. Truly, there is a spirit of collaboration that is unique to BC—government, industry, academia, and not-for-profits are aligned in efforts to bolster the success of the sector. We are currently witnessing momentum in scientific innovation, capital investment, deal flow, and talent development. This remarkable progress extends beyond geographical boundaries, positively impacting patient health on a global scale while building a resilient and sustainable life sciences sector within our local community.

The Life Sciences BC Awards celebrate and honor the exceptional individuals and organizations that serve as catalysts in propelling the sector forward. Let’s come together to cheer each other on, raising a toast for an incredible year.

Congratulations to the 2024 Life Sciences BC Award winners:

Company & Organizational Awards

• Company of the Year: Aspect Biosystems
• Emerging Company of the Year: Augurex
• Strategic Partner of the Year: The University of British Columbia - School of Biomedical Engineering

Individual Awards

• Dr. Don Rix Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Richard Glickman
• Milton Wong Community Leadership Award: Joseph Garcia
• Scientific Entrepreneurship Award: Dr. Robert Young
• Genome BC Award for Scientific Excellence: Dr. Raymond Ng

Companies to Watch - Recognition Honour Roll*

• HEALWELL AI
• Kapoose Creek Bio
• Mesentech
• Reverb Therapeutics
• SeraGene Therapeutics
• VoxCell BioInnovation

* This recognition is not an award but highlights outstanding companies to take note of and watch. 

Reflecting on an Extraordinary Evening: Celebrating #Excellence & #Community:

What an exceptional evening at the @LifeSciences_BC #LSBCawards! With over 620 attendees, including many luminaries from the #lifesciences community across Canada, it was truly a night to remember. pic.twitter.com/Iifgro68pV

— Novateur Ventures (@NovateurBio) September 13, 2024

The BIO International Convention is the largest and most comprehensive event for biotechnology, representing the full ecosystem of biotech with more than 18,500 industry leaders from across the globe.

This day-long event will connect sector leaders for in-depth discussions on the important role digital health has in the future of healthcare. As health technologies evolve, they present unprecedented challenges and opportunities to improve patient care and individual health outcomes. From AI-powered medical devices and diagnostics to technologies accessing real-time data, the possibilities for digital health truly are exciting. 

The event will offer comprehensive programming which includes company pitches, insightful keynote presentations, engaging fireside chats, and thought-provoking panel discussions focusing on innovations within the digital health sector. 

Fantastic morning so far at our Digital Health Conference, full of enlightening thought leadership and exciting research! The breadth of innovation in BC is astounding.

Stay tuned for more updates throughout the day!#LSBCdigital pic.twitter.com/yLxT9OnTwD

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) April 25, 2024

The Bloom Burton & Co. Healthcare Investor Conference is taking place annually at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (North Building). Bloom Burton are inviting Canada’s premier publicly-traded and venture-backed private companies as well as the most promising pre-venture companies in the healthcare industry. 

Join Canadian, U.S. and international investors who are interested in the latest developments in Canadian healthcare companies. Investors have the opportunity to obtain corporate updates from presenting companies, and participate in Bloom Burton's 1-on-1 meeting system with company management. 

The @BloomBurton #Healthcare #Investor #Conference is just around the corner! Delighted to announce that Ali Ardakani, Founder & Managing Director @NovateurBio, will be attending the #BBHIC2024 next week. Looking forward to networking and gaining insights!https://t.co/BrOU2XhGlf pic.twitter.com/2dNfH3W4h2

— Novateur Ventures (@NovateurBio) April 13, 2024

That's a wrap for the Bloom Burton Healthcare Investor Conference 2024! Thank you to @bloomburton for hosting a fantastic conference and congratulations to all presenting companies. We were delighted to see many LSBC members among the speakers.#BBHIC2024 pic.twitter.com/cARnA2IvAp

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) April 19, 2024

This premier full-day gathering welcomes life sciences leaders and trailblazers from academia, research, health institutions, government, and industry to engage in insightful discussions on the ever-evolving trends, developments, and policies shaping British Columbia’s thriving sector. 

BC’s world-class scientific research drives health innovation and catalyzes provincial economic growth, enhancing the well-being of British Columbians. Our sector leaders are collaborating to secure a thriving and sustainable future for all through globally sought-after health solutions, including innovations at the intersection between human health and climate change. 

This year’s programming focuses on the theme “Powering Life Sciences Innovation and Sustainable Economic Growth.” Stakeholders across the sector will engage in dynamic, multifaceted presentations and discussions to enhance collective knowledge that enables sector advancement.

Fiona Dalton, Dr. Darryl Knight, Dr. Ian Rongve, and Brian Simmers will sit down at our Access to Innovation conference to discuss the New St. Paul's Clinical Support and Research Centre, moderated by Ali Ardakani.

Learn more: https://t.co/noMtEmoXDX#LSBCaccess pic.twitter.com/dksWq2BAm1

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) February 27, 2024

#LSBCaccess Access to Innovation 2024:
Ali Ardakani, Chair @LifeSciences_BC and Founder & Managing Director @NovateurBio, was delighted to moderate a panel discussion "Transforming Health Care While Benefiting the Economy: The New St. Paul's Clinical Support and Research Centre" pic.twitter.com/w4gTNZIJfv

— Novateur Ventures (@NovateurBio) February 29, 2024

This premier conference is the largest and most informative health care investment symposium in the industry which connects global industry leaders, emerging fast-growth companies, innovative technology creators and members of the investment community. 

Novateur & BIO's Guide to JPM 2024 App Download

The Novateur and BIO's app offers comprehensive details and registration for satellite events at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco. Users can share events, add them to their calendar, and access directions for in-person events. 

This event features a panel of experts who will share invaluable insights and strategies to help you maximize your experience at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference. Learn about the week’s various activities, receive guidance on engaging with global investors, get acquainted with some of the prominent BC companies attending, and much more. 

Bestowed annually, the Bloom Burton Award honours an individual scientist, inventor, executive, entrepreneur, industry leader, or policy maker who made the greatest contribution to Canada’s innovative healthcare industry in the previous year. Nominees are accepted from any of the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, diagnostic/imaging, research instrumentation, consumer health, services or healthcare IT sectors, and equal consideration is given to contributions across any stage of development – from discovery to commercial end markets.

Thank you @bloomburton for a fun and inspiring evening! Got a chance to take a family photo @lifesciences_bc @adMare_Bio @AcuitasTx @AbCelleraBio @amplitudeVC @BlakesLaw @XenonPharma @JLABS @abbvie @rbcx pic.twitter.com/xmgRgSao0h

— Novateur Ventures (@NovateurBio) October 1, 2023

From the oranizer:

This distinguished occasion provides a unique opportunity for British Columbia’s vibrant life sciences community to gather and celebrate its members’ outstanding achievements and recognize the tireless efforts of those who have devoted their careers to advancing health innovations.

Embracing its status as Canada’s fastest-growing life sciences sector, our BC ecosystem is currently witnessing unparalleled momentum in scientific discovery, innovation, capital attraction, and the cultivation of talent. This remarkable progress extends beyond geographical boundaries, positively impacting patient health on a global scale while building a resilient and sustainable life science sector within our local community.

The Life Sciences BC Awards celebrate and honor the exceptional individuals and organizations that serve as catalysts in propelling the sector forward.

Congratulations to the 2023 Life Sciences BC Award winners:

Company Awards

• Companies of the Year:
• WELL Health Technologies Corp.
• Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Emerging Company of the Year: Abdera Therapeutics Inc.
• Strategic Partner of the Year: Government of British Columbia, Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation (JEDI)

*Companies to Watch – Recognition Honour Roll

• Bold Therapeutics Inc.
• Gandeeva Therapeutics
• ScopeSys
• Sonic Incytes Medical Corp.

* This honour-roll recognition is not an award but celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of early-stage companies that have distinguished themselves from their peers over the last year.

Individual Awards

• Dr. Don Rix Lifetime Achievement: Noel Hall
• Milton Wong Community Leadership: Dr. Haig Farris
• Scientific Entrepreneurship: Dr. Peter Zandstra
• Genome BC Scientific Excellence: Dr. Laura Arbour

In partnership with Mintz, Novateur Academy and OBIO® invite venture-backed therapeutic companies to join us for a 2-day immersive masterclass on preparing for pharma business development, IP licensing strategy, deal structure, term sheets, valuation, negotiation & relationship management. These interactive sessions & case studies will be led by experienced pharma & biotech executives. The event will culminate with case-based pitches and mock licensing negotiations judged by pharma BD executives, followed by a networking reception.

Confirmed Speakers and Facilitators:

• Ali Ardakani - Chair Life Sciences BC; Associate Creative CDL; Managing Director, Novateur Ventures
• Anne Stevens - VP of BD, AbCellera; formerly Director, Aequus Pharmaceuticals
• Arpita Maiti - Head of Immunology Search & Evaluation , AbbVie; formerly Global Head Emerging Sciences, Pfizer
• Dan Zheng - Sr. Director for Oncology BD, Takeda; formerly Sr. Director Global Transactions, Sanofi
• David Kennard - Sr. Advisor BD, Novateur; formerly Corp. Development, Gilead Sciences
• David Poon - Chief Business Officer, Gandeeva Therapeutics; formerly VP of BD, Zymeworks
• Dozie Amuzie - Head, JLabs Canada
• Julia Pomoransky - Sr. Director BD, Turnstone Biologics
• Kuldeep Neote - EIR at UHN and FACIT; formerly VP External Innovations, Eli Lilly
• Lorraine Hurding - Global Diagnostics Partnering Lead for Strategy & Transactions, Roche
• Maura Campbell - CEO, OBIO; formerly VP of IP & Contracts, Turnstone Biologics
• Mike Foorer - VP of BD, AmacaThera; formerly Director Corp. Development, SteriMax
• Parimal Nathwani - CEO, Toronto Innovation Acceleration Partners
• Rebecca Ross, Director, Credit Solutions at Life Science & Healthcare SVB
• Thomas Digby - IP Advisor, Novateur Ventures; formerly Head IP, Novartis
• Yvonne Joseph - BD Partnerships, Novateur Ventures; formerly Sr. Lead BD, Daewoong Pharmaceuticals

The two-day immersive masterclass, hosted by #OBIO and @NovateurBio, saw fantastic engagement and enthusiasm. Looking forward to seeing our participants leverage their #businessdevelopment and #licensing knowledge & skills in their careers. pic.twitter.com/PmTC0UIlya

— OBIO (@OBIOscience) June 23, 2023

Just wrapped up an incredible #NovateurAcademy #Masterclass  #immersive, #enlightening & #empowering! Huge thanks to our amazing partners @Mintz_Law & @OBIOscience for the collaboration & support. Together we've honed skills & paved the way for future #businessdevelopment. https://t.co/ZZw2iymm7R

— Novateur Ventures (@NovateurBio) June 22, 2023

Stand up for innovation. Stand up for truth. And stand up for science. It’s time to inspire, honor, and recognize the true value of the breakthrough work biotech performs for society. Today. And every day. Well into the future. Join our team at the worlds largest biotech gathering. #StandUpForScience #BIO2023

Every two years, the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health presents the field's most prestigious award, the Frank A. Calderone Prize in Public Health, to an individual who has made a transformational contribution in the field of public health. In addition to the Calderone medal and an award of $50,000, prize winners deliver a special lecture on their work.

The prize recognizes an individual who has accomplished work of extraordinary distinction in the field of public health or made a specific discovery or contribution that has had long-term national or global implications in such areas as communicable disease, environmental health, epidemiology, social and/or behavioral medicine, health policy, or any aspect of health promotion or disease prevention.

On Thursday, April 27, 2023, the 2023 Prize was awarded to Anthony S. Fauci, MD, Former Director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland.

Bloom Burton is hosting its annual Healthcare Investor Conference in Toronto, Canada from April 25-26, 2023. We are inviting Canada’s premier publicly-traded and venture-backed private companies as well as the most promising pre-venture companies in the healthcare industry.

Join Canadian, U.S. and international investors who are interested in the latest developments in Canadian healthcare companies. Investors have the opportunity to obtain corporate updates from presenting companies, and participate in Bloom Burton's 1-on-1 meeting system with company management.

Life Sciences BC's 8th Annual Access to Innovation conference is a full day event that brings together life sciences leaders from academia, research, health institutions, government, and industry to discuss emerging trends, innovation, economic impact, translational science, and policies to advance the sector. This year’s event will resume in person.

The BC life sciences sector has never been stronger, leading the country in the pace of discovery and company creation. By leveraging our world-class research, we are well-positioned to deliver innovative product solutions and services critical to the health system while driving economic diversification and competitiveness.

As leaders, we need to seize the opportunity to significantly advance the sector and ensure that BC builds on the extraordinary momentum of the last few years by working together to develop policies and strategies that attract capital and talent and enable scale. The time for sustained collaborative action - between industry, research and academia, and government - is now.

Please join us as we dive into the most pressing issues facing the BC life sciences sector.

LSBC Board Chair, Ali Ardakani, of @NovateurBio, brought the presentations portion of Access to Innovation to a close and kicked off our fabulous networking reception, sponsored by @PwC_Canada. Thanks also to Event sponsors, @CastlCanada and @DTSupercluster. #LSBCaccess pic.twitter.com/p7YajJ5yLZ

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) February 24, 2023

#LSBCaccess
Ali Ardakani, Founder & Managing Director @NovateurBio & the Chair of the @LifeSciences_BC BOD, was delighted to meet @Irwin_Brenda, Managing Partner, Relentless Venture Fund and Pat Brady, Director, Industry Innovation Programs @GenomeBC https://t.co/WyvskG4AgV

— Novateur Ventures (@NovateurBio) February 23, 2023

The OBIO® Investment Summit (OIS) and Early Technology Showcase (ETS) is a forum to connect global investors with growing new companies and best technology innovators. New for 2023, OBIO is pleased to introduce Pharma Licensing Forum (PLF) which brings together Canada’s life science companies with pharma licensing professionals to explore partnerships and licensing opportunities.

Thank you to all the panelists for an informative discussion! At this discussion sponsored by @NLawGlobal, we heard from expert licensing teams on how to successfully attract and negotiate with big pharma and the impact it has on VC valuation. pic.twitter.com/9pTDQk1f5d

— OBIO (@OBIOscience) February 8, 2023

 

We are excited to introduce our panelists for the “Trends in Pharma Licensing” discussion on the first day of the 2023 #OBIO Investment Summit next week! The panel discussion, sponsored by @NLawGlobal, will set the stage for the Pharma Licensing Forum in the afternoon. pic.twitter.com/kT2S7lIdsY

— OBIO (@OBIOscience) February 6, 2023

Happening this evening in Vancouver! Join #CAHR delegates & faculty for cocktails & a brief presentation to kick off tomorrow’s #WesternDay 2023 conference. https://t.co/76fBstIYOO #Healthcare #PharmaPolicy #Education pic.twitter.com/40VBPMyW6r

— CAHR: Canadian Assoc. for Healthcare Reimbursement (@CAHR_ACRSS) February 6, 2023

WELCOME RECEPTION
Featuring Wendy Hurlburt, BC Life Sciences
and Ali Ardakani, Novateur Ventures Inc.
Monday, February 6 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM PT
Saltspring Island Room

Pharma policy during periods of crisis is critical to addressing current issues and evolving the system to be prepared for the future. This encapsulates some of the important work of Life Sciences BC as it engages both with the federal and provincial issues of our time. Join Wendy Hurlburt, President and CEO of Life Sciences BC, and Ali Ardakani, Founder and Managing Director, Novateur Ventures Inc., and Chair of the Board at Life Sciences BC, for cocktails and a brief presentation on the evening of February 6th. Wendy and Ali will provide an overview of some of the recent successes of the Life Sciences community from a policy and crisis perspective and their vision for the future as they set the stage for the February 7th conference.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Tuesday, February 7 | 9:00 AM – 4:15 PM PT
Saturna Island Room

The past few years have stressed virtually every aspect of our Canadian healthcare system, exposing areas of strength and need without prejudice. Western Day 2023 is embarking on a bold agenda with a return to an in-person venue focused on the policy challenges and advancements revealed by the recent and ongoing healthcare crisis. A political perspective on Health Reform will provide the backdrop as we explore advancements in negotiations and pCPA, the evolving and advancing role of pharmacists in a solutions-driven environment, examine the progress towards a more consistent framing and incorporation of the emerging science of RWE, and providing a lens on policy development from the patient’s perspective.

This premier conference is the largest and most informative health care investment symposium in the industry which connects global industry leaders, emerging fast-growth companies, innovative technology creators and members of the investment community.

Since 2017, The IBE has offered in-person certificate programs helping entrepreneurs in Boston, Austin, Leiden, London and Paris to accelerate innovation to the marketplace. OBIO® in partnership with The Ottawa Health Innovation Hub (OHI Hub) and IBE are excited to bring this proven program to Canada.

Ali Ardakani, Founder & Managing Director of Novateur was one of the Key Session Speakers.

An opportunity to bring together stakeholders in the healthcare innovation ecosystem. The two-day event includes company pitches, presentations, and panel discussion, giving entrepreneurs a platform to share their stories and receive feedback and engagement from a wide range of investor stakeholders. Investor participants range from angel investors, venture capital, corporate venture, and foundations. Life Sciences BC is very excited to once again offer this chance for companies to pitch their projects, attract attention, solicit support, and secure investment that will aid them in their continued growth trajectory.

Day 2 of Invest in BC presented by @LumiraVentures wrapped up with a fascinating panel discussion on the "Life Sciences Investment Outlook in BC and Beyond," moderated by Ali Ardakani of @NovateurBio, our session sponsor. Takeaways include: (1/4) pic.twitter.com/qCYLCjMB4l

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) November 4, 2022

Despite a somewhat challenging financing environment, the BC sector should continue to do well, especially those companies with solid data behind them. Advice for companies seeking funding? (2/4)

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) November 4, 2022

Start with market research to find the VCs that align most closely with your business. Get an introduction if you can, and start informal conversations about your business early– think of it as a dialogue. It's all about relationship building. (3/4)

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) November 4, 2022

Finally, meet with more than one VC and test your story before targeting your ideal investors. Let investor feedback inform your strategy. Thanks to all the panelists for your excellent insights! (4/4)

— Life Sciences BC (@lifesciences_bc) November 4, 2022

Medical Device Playbook is Canada's largest Medtech event for entrepreneurial companies and medical device professionals. Medical Device Playbook Toronto 2022 returns to the MaRS Discovery District on October 6, 2022.

Industry speakers and panels from across North America will discuss, network and learn 2022 trends, opportunities, and strategies. 

Presentations include entrepreneur case studies, success stories, deal making, financing and clinical/regulatory advice from industry veterans.

Event includes Lunch, Breaks, and Networking Reception. Medical Device Playbook Toronto 2022 is co-hosted by StarFish Medical, MaRS, and OBIO. 

Among Speakers: 

Ali Ardakani of Novateur Ventures, offering insights into what it took to bring a medical device start-up to NASDAQ listing & PMA approval. He emphasized staying hungry & active, focusing on people, and taking chances when the right opportunity appears. Don’t give up! pic.twitter.com/q5dzA2hnNa

— StarFish Medical (@StarFishMedical) October 6, 2022

Novateur was delighted to be the sponsor of the D.R.I.N.K.S.

(Discussions Relevant to Inspiring New Knowledge and Science) Social.

Congratulations to our winners! The main prize was a round-trip airfare to JPM 2023, and other prizes were gift cards.

You can join D.R.I.N.K.S. Vancouver LinkedIn group to get more information about monthly socials.

An opportunity to celebrate our community’s many achievements, small wins and big victories, with our peers, family and friends. This is our moment to recognize and honour the efforts of all those who have invested their lives’ work in mastering successful health outcomes.

B.C. has found its place on the international life sciences stage and is recognized in Canada and beyond for its significant accomplishments in medical technology, biopharmaceuticals, health delivery systems, and medical research & development initiatives. We have reached beyond our borders to impact patient health and connect to the world at large, while ensuring the life science sector here, at home, remains vibrant and sustainable.

We are fortunate to have a life science ecosystem that bridges academia and a thriving research & development networks, including world-class healthcare facilities, distinguished health & medical foundations, and renowned centers of excellence that are supportive of translation and commercializing innovation in healthcare.

Congratulations to the 2022 Life Sciences BC Award winners!

Deal of the Year: Precision NanoSystems

Genome British Columbia Award for Scientific Excellence: Dr. Lauchlan Fraser

Medical / Digital Technology Company of the Year: Thrive Health

Dr. Don Rix Award for Lifetime Achievement in Life Sciences: Dr. Simon Pimstone

Global Impact Award: Dr. Pieter Cullis

Milton Wong Award for Leadership: adMare BioInnovations

Emerging Life Sciences Company of the Year: Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals

Life Sciences Company of the Year: Acuitas Therapeutics

Strategic Life Sciences Partner of the Year: Genome BC

Ali Ardakani was honoured to present the Global Impact Award to Dr. Pieter Cullis for his significant contributions to the development of Lipid Nanoparticles.

"Gain inspiration and critical insights from global thought leaders addressing critical topics at the intersection of science, business and policy. The 2022 BIO International Convention will feature 100+ interactive sessions across 4 days covering a variety of therapeutic areas, business development, digital health, patient advocacy, public policy, and next-generation biotherapeutics, and the latest updates from industry experts on COVID-19 and the vaccine. "

Bloom Burton is hosting its annual Healthcare Investor Conference in Toronto, Canada. They’ve invited 66 of Canada’s premier publicly-traded and venture-backed private companies together with the most promising pre-venture companies in the healthcare industry.

Health data can save lives and keep BC and Canada competitive on the global stage — from genomics through developing AI solutions that cure disease. Data can help us diagnose and treat illness earlier and more effectively, accelerate preventative and precision medicine, unlock how environmental factors can determine health outcomes, and more. 
 
To unleash the full potential of this data, we need robust cyber and privacy security, advanced data sharing and integration tools, as well as decentralized platforms that Canadians can trust. These tools exist, and Canada should be a leader in their implementation.

On April 7, 2022, CityAge, in collaboration with Genome BC, WesGroup, Estonia, Digital Technology Super Cluster, and St. Paul's Fondation launched the next epsiode for The Data Effect, Data-Driven Healthcare Breakthroughs and mapped out how Canada can use these assets to drive discovery, protect privacy, and benefit society. 

Ali Ardakani was moderating the panel: Data-Driven Health Care Breakthroughs

Open and accessible data sets can accelerate health research. What are the essential components of a great health science cluster? How do we ensure the privacy that Canadians expect, while also driving discovery that can save lives? What’s the role of data sharing and data policy? 

• Zsuzsanna Hollander, Data Science Lead, Genome BC 
• Marc Fiume, Co-Founder and CEO, DNAstack  
• Kim McGrail, Scientific Director, Health Data Research Network Canada, Professor, UBC 
• Darryl Knight, Vice President, Research and Academic Affairs, Providence Health Care   
• ‍Moderator: Ali Ardakani, Founder & Managing Director, Novateur Ventures, Vice Chair, Life Sciences BC

2022 will mark the 7th Annual Access to Innovation Conference, bringing together all stakeholders in the life sciences sector. The conference brings together leaders from across academia, research, health institutions, government, and industry. Broadly, the aim of the conference is to provide a venue for dialogue on topics of relevance to life sciences from scientific discovery, emerging trends, innovation, economic impact, translational science, and policies to advance the sector.

Join us for the sessions sponsored by Novateur Ventures and moderated by Ali Ardakani, Novateur's Founder & Managing Director and Vice-Chair of Life Sciences BC:

How to Build a Successful AI/Medtech Company: Canary Medical’s Story

Speaker: Dr. William Hunter, President & CEO, Canary Medical Inc.

How mRNAs Saved the World: Pieter Cullis’ Journey

Speaker: Dr. Pieter Cullis, Scientific Director & CEO, NanoMedicines Innovation Network

Invest in BC presented by Lumira Ventures is our opportunity to bring together stakeholders in the healthcare innovation ecosystem. Entrepreneurs tell their stories and get feedback and engagement from a wide range of investor stakeholders. Investor participants range from angel investors, venture capital, corporate venture, and foundations. In addition, tech transfer offices, innovation councils, and government ministries and agencies are also present. It is the opportunity for companies to attract attention, solicit support, and secure investment that will aid them in their continued growth trajectory.

Panel Investment in BC Life Sciences: Super Hero Investors

Ali Ardakani, Vice-Chair of Life Sciences BC and Founder & Managing Director of Novateur Ventures was leading a panel discussion on Super Hero Investors in the BC life sciences sector with some of the most active investors in the region.

 
The event brings together stakeholders in the life sciences ecosystem for an exciting day of innovative company pitches, presentations, and engaging panel discussions. Companies from across the life sciences community will be invited to apply to pitch from the following sectors: Digital Health, Medical Devices, Medical Technology, Diagnostics, and Biotechnology.
 
Last year’s Investor Summit attracted 85 investors from around the world including from the UK, USA, China, Singapore & India. 

The 23rd Annual Life Sciences BC Awards is an opportunity to celebrate our community’s many achievements, small wins and big victories, with our peers, family and friends. This is our moment to recognize and honour the efforts of all those who have invested their lives’ work in mastering successful health outcomes.

B.C. has found its place on the international life sciences stage and is recognized in Canada and beyond for its significant accomplishments in medical technology, biopharmaceuticals, health delivery systems, and medical research & development initiatives. We have reached beyond our borders to impact patient health and connect to the world at large, while ensuring the life science sector here, at home, remains vibrant and sustainable.

We are fortunate to have a life science ecosystem that bridges academia and a thriving research & development networks, including world-class healthcare facilities, distinguished health & medical foundations, and renowned centres of excellence that are supportive of translation and commercializing innovation in healthcare.

The 2021 Life Sciences BC Award Winners are: 

Company

• Life Sciences Company of the Year — AbCellera 
• Medical Technology Company of the Year — Kardium 
• Deal of the Year — Aurinia Pharmaceuticals Inc. 
• Strategic Life Sciences Partner of the Year — Novateur Ventures 
• Emerging Life Sciences Company of the Year — Notch Therapeutics

Individual 

• Milton Wong Award for Leadership — Northview Ventures: Doug Janzen 
• Dr. Don Rix Award for Achievement in Life Sciences — Dr. Helen Burt 

Research 

• Genome BC Award for Scientific Excellence — Dr. Michael Russello 
• Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research — Aubrey J. Tingle Prize — Dr. Ruth Grunau 

Impact 

BC Life Sciences innovation has been globally recognized for addressing the unique challenges that arose as a result of the pandemic. Through collaboration between academic and research institutions, local SME and global pharmaceutical companies, we saw BC take a leadership role in the development of vaccines, therapeutics, medical devices and diagnostics, and digital health solutions. While many BC companies and individuals have contributed greatly, Life Sciences BC would like to recognize the extraordinary efforts made within our sector with two special awards that celebrate leadership. 

• Global Impact Award: Company — Acuitas Therapeutics 
• Leadership Impact Award: Individual — Dr. Mel Krajden, BC Centre for Disease Control 

Please join us in celebrating our 2021 Life Sciences BC Award winners

Date: September 23, 2021

Time: 2:00pm – 4:30pm PT

Platform: Zoom

Tickets: Free for Life Sciences BC members & non-members

How to make money from your IP portfolio?

IP is one of the key components in both early-stage and well-established companies, therefore for medtech, digital health and biotech start-ups its crucial to develop a strong patent strategy right from the start.

ELAVITY jointly with the law firm Vossius & Partner, Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property and Novateur Ventures, invites you to this Masterclass on Intellectual Property for New Ventures. A variety of topics will be covered as described in below and the strategic importance of IP and licensing in the context of fundraising will be highlighted.

Topics:

• Deep dive into Intellectual Property definition as a key value driver
• Short introduction to the common IP rights else than patents (trademarks, designs and copyright)
• Patents and patentability criteria (technicality, industrial application, novelty and inventive steps)
• Applications of Intellectual Property
• How to use IP to protect your business
• Common strategies to extend protection beyond the 20-year term
• Developing a compelling IP Portfolio
• How to make money from your IP Portfolio

The June VANTEC event features thought leaders who will provide some insights into the trends and future of the life and health sciences sector; followed by presentations from life sciences and healthtech companies. Join us for an afternoon of investor panels, pitches, and networking.

Join Novateur Ventures Inc.'s Managing Director Ali Ardakani and ESSA Pharma' s President & CEO David Parkinson for a session about the journey from discovery to successful clinical trials at the Life Sciences BC Access to Innovation event.

Session 3: Part 2, Wednesday, Feb 24, 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM PST
Theme: "From Discovery to Successful Clinical Trials: ESSA Pharma’s Story"

Join Novateur Ventures Inc.'s Managing Director Ali Ardakani and Kardium Inc.' s CEO Kevin Chaplin on Wednesday, Feb 24, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM (PST) for a session about successful medical device commercialization at the Life Sciences BC Access to Innovation event.

Learning the “in’s and out’s” of fundraising is a key element of an entrepreneur's venture building journey. But even more important is building relationships with potential investors, as these are the champions that can provide guidance, open doors and provide valuable insights to navigate from what, when and how to fundraise.

Join our Reverse Pitch Roundtables following our Sneak-a-Peek presentations with Ali Ardakani of Novateur Ventures Inc. Ventures, Irene Dorsman of Angel Forum ™ Vancouver and Women's Equity Lab and Pieter Dorsman of Angel Forum ™ Vancouver and E-Fund. 

Please join Novateur Ventures Inc.'s Founder & Managing Director and Vice-Chair of Life Sciences BC, Ali Ardakani for the panel discussion on investment in the BC life sciences sector with some of the most active investors in the region. 

The Life Sciences BC Investor Summit brings together industry stakeholders from the healthcare innovation ecosystem for company pitching and fostering strategic partnerships with international investors. This signature event will profile more than 30 digital health, therapeutics, and medical technology entrepreneurs from British Columbia’s life sciences sector. 

Each of the selected companies will have the opportunity to present their company’s story and receive feedback and engagement from a wide range of investor stakeholders including, angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporate ventures from Japan, France, Hong Kong, China, the United States and Canada.

The 22nd Annual Life Sciences BC Awards is an opportunity to celebrate our community’s many achievements, small wins and big victories, with our peers, family and friends. This is our moment to recognize and honour the efforts of all those who have invested their lives’ work in mastering successful health outcomes.

The 22nd Annual Life Sciences BC Award Winners: 

Genome BC Award for Scientific Excellence — Dr. Aly Karsan
Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research — Aubrey J. Tingle Prize — Dr. Poul Sorensen
Milton Wong Award for Leadership — Nancy Harrison
Medical/Digital Technology Company of the Year — Canary Medical Inc.
Deal of the Year — Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Strategic Life Sciences Partner of the Year — adMare BioInnovations Inc.
Emerging Life Sciences Company of the Year — Chinook Therapeutics Inc.
Dr. Don Rix Award for Lifetime Achievement — John Babcook

For 2020, the BIO International Convention will transition to a new, virtual event format, BIO Digital. This virtual gathering of the global biotech industry provides access to key partners via BIO One-on-One Partnering, educational resources to help drive your business, and the insights you need to continue critical research and development. 

We may not be able to gather in person, but nothing stops innovation.

The highly successful fourteenth annual Bio-Europe Spring® international partnering conference was a fully digital event in the midst of the worldwide travel restrictions due to the global health emergency. In just 16 days, EBD Group transformed what would have been a Paris conference, to a digital solution. 

This year’s theme is “Innovation Adoption — Accelerating Patient Outcomes”. Stakeholders include: Academia, Health Institutions, Government, Centres of Innovation, SMEs, Multi-national Corporations, Investors and Payers.

The annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference is the largest and most informative healthcare investment symposium in the industry, bringing together industry leaders, emerging fast-growth companies, innovative technology creators, and members of the investment community.

What is today known as the annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference began in 1983 and was hosted by Hambrecht & Quist (H&Q). H&Q was acquired by Chase in 2000 and a year later Chase was acquired by J.P. Morgan. At its infancy, the conference featured just 20 companies, had about 200 attendees and focused on the biotech industry.

Today, while it is still at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco, the annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference brings thousands of investors from around the world together. The hundreds of companies presenting run the gamut, from start-ups to those with more than $300 billion in market cap, and encompass the entire global healthcare landscape, including pharmaceutical firms, healthcare service providers, profit and not-for-profits, and medical device companies.

As Europe’s largest life science partnering conference, BIO-Europe offers countless opportunities to engage with global life science partners. Empower yourself with knowledge from key biotech and pharma leaders who will discuss the latest industry trends in workshops and panels.

The Prix Galien Award recognizes outstanding achievements in improving the global human condition through the development of innovative drugs and other treatments. The Prix Galien was created in 1970 in honor of Galen, the father of medical science and modern pharmacology. Worldwide, the Prix Galien is regarded as the equivalent of the Nobel Prize in biopharmaceutical research.

The Prix Galien USA Awards Ceremony launched in 2007 and the Awards Ceremony and Dinner is held annually at the New York City Museum of Natural History following the Galien Forum. In recognition of the development and discovery of products that improve the human condition, a committee of highly accomplished scientific leaders, inclusive of four Nobel Laureates, recognized winners in three categories: “Best Pharmaceutical Product,” “Best Biotechnology Product,” and “Best Medical Technology.”

Join SynBioBeta 2019 on October 1-3 in San Francisco to see how synthetic biology is disrupting consumer products, food, agriculture, medicine, chemicals, materials, and more.

Bestowed annually, the Bloom Burton Award honours an individual scientist, inventor, executive, entrepreneur, industry leader, or policy maker who made the greatest contribution to Canada’s innovative healthcare industry in the previous year.

Follow the news and you know: Scientists are more than just chipping away at cancer. They are kicking down the barricades. Cell therapies are, at long last, delivering lasting remissions in a few indications. Small molecules and antibodies with new mechanisms of action - sometimes in clever combination - are raising the bar, making cancer more of a chronic and tolerable disease. Underlying information on gene mutations, dysregulated protein networks and the tumor microenvironment provide a vivid glimpse of malignancy at the molecular level, and a wellspring for new therapeutic ideas. Much of this progress is occurring here on the West Coast. Hear from the leaders in Big Biotech, venture capital, and emerging startups at The Seattle Cancer Summit, March 5 and at The Boston Cancer Summit, March 7. All proceeds go to the Mt. Everest Climb to Fight Cancer campaign at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

Follow the news and you know: Scientists are more than just chipping away at cancer. They are kicking down the barricades. Cell therapies are, at long last, delivering lasting remissions in a few indications. Small molecules and antibodies with new mechanisms of action - sometimes in clever combination - are raising the bar, making cancer more of a chronic and tolerable disease. Underlying information on gene mutations, dysregulated protein networks and the tumor microenvironment provide a vivid glimpse of malignancy at the molecular level, and a wellspring for new therapeutic ideas. Much of this progress is occurring here on the West Coast. Hear from the leaders in Big Biotech, venture capital, and emerging startups at The Seattle Cancer Summit, March 5 and at The Boston Cancer Summit, March 7. All proceeds go to the Mt. Everest Climb to Fight Cancer campaign at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.