Every year, the world’s largest biotechnology gathering attracts the biggest names in biotech, with high-level executives and influential decision-makers from around the globe offering key networking and partnering opportunities.

The 2015 BIO International Convention is taking place this year June 15-18 in Philadelphia. The city is hosting more than 15,000 attendees and 2,500 CEOs from over 65 countries.

B.C. is one of Canada’s leading provinces for life and health science, creating ground-breaking lifesaving technologies and providing close to 15,000 jobs for British Columbians.

During this year’s convention, the Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services Amrik Virk will be attending and sending a strong signal that British Columbia is open for business and remains committed to building on the successes that have made the province a leader in this field.

BIO International Convention is hosted by the Biotechnology Industry Association, which represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions and related organizations throughout the United States and in more than 30 other nations.

Quotes:
 
Amrik Virk, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services -

“Leveraging British Columbia and creating connections to international players is a key component to our province’s success. Bringing our province to 2015 BIO International Convention is ensuring our tech and science sectors continue to thrive.”

Paul V. Drohan, CEO & president, Life Sciences BC -

“British Columbia’s life sciences’ sector contributes globally, with continual breakthroughs in research, innovation and commercialisation. Jim Greenwood, CEO of BIO, was in B.C. in April 2015 at Life Sciences BC Awards in Vancouver and this convention continues our B.C. communities’ connection to the biggest names in the industry.”

Quick Facts:

• B.C.’s technology sector produces over 84,000 jobs and $23 billion in annual revenue.
• Health and life sciences specifically creates close to 15,000 of these jobs at over 300 companies.
• BC Life Sciences sector has had six Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in the past 14 months, which is crucial to putting B.C. on the international investor map.
• Biotechnology Industry Association members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. Part of their mission is to help grow the global biotech industry, which they do through the BIO International Convention.
• The BIO International Convention features over 800 speakers and session leaders.
• Topics range from digital health, and food and agriculture to corporate best practices and emerging opportunities in global markets.
• This event features keynotes and sessions from key policymakers, scientist and CEOs.
• Past speakers include former President of the United States Bill Clinton and former Prime Minister of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Tony Blair.

Learn More:  http://convention.bio.org/

Media Contacts:

Joanne Whittier
Communications Manager
Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services
250 387-0172