Fribourg at the Heart of Life Sciences Innovation!

On November 21, 2024, over 250 key players from the Swiss Health Valley gathered in Fribourg for the BioAlps Networking Day at HEIA-FR and the University of Fribourg. The event showcased the region’s vibrant ecosystem in biotech, medtech, and nutrition, emphasizing sustainability challenges and opportunities.

In the morning, Prof. Christophe Allemann presented ChemTech and talked about the ChemTech pilot plant, which is unique in Switzerland and Europe. Prof. Carmen Jungho Rhême presented the BCC.At the end of the morning session, an impressive visit of the ChemTech facilities was organized.In the afternoon, Prof. C. Allemann moderated two fireside chat sessions: two enriching conversations on "Sustainable Biotech and Pharma - Process Innovation and Governance" with Marina Martin Curran (Haleon), Fabrice Véricel (UCB Farchim), Philip Scholten (Bloom Biorenewables), and Roger Marti (HEIA - HES-SO//FR).

Key Highlights:

• Inspiring Discussions: Presentations and roundtables on sustainability in biotech and nutrition.
• Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: the morning I introduced ChemTech - HEIA-FR and visits ouf our facility were organized.
• Start-Up Spotlight: Featuring innovative local companies like Neuria SA, Xemperia, and Elionova AG.
• Regional Innovation Hub: Presentation of the Marly Innovation Center (MIC).
• Economic Contribution: The life sciences sector generates CHF 2 billion annually (10% of Fribourg’s GDP), driven by global leaders like Alcon, CSL Vifor, and Corden Pharma.

Special Awards:

• BioAlps Industry Award 2024: Takeda Neuchâtel.
• BioAlps Academia Award 2024: Swiss Cancer Center Leman.

The event was a testament to Fribourg’s leadership in life sciences and innovation.