In September 2024, BioInnovation Greece NPO held its second "Bio3" conference, titled “Biomedicine, Bioinformatics, and Biotechnology Forum: Fostering Collaboration in Industry and Academia,” at the Technopolis City of Athens with the participation of leading researchers, innovative biotech startups, and key figures from the pharmaceutical industry and investment sector. The Forum, which was supported, among others, by the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, aimed to enhance and promote scientific research and entrepreneurship in biotechnology, boost networking and collaboration, and develop innovative solutions to address current global challenges.

Within the framework of the Forum, participants examined modern applications of microbiome research, innovative therapies, and strategies for advancing biotechnology and healthcare. The discussions also highlighted the challenges faced by Greek start-ups in attracting international investment and underscored the importance of the “One Health” approach for global health, through keynote speeches, training sessions, and panel discussions showcasing approaches to innovation and creativity. Finally, the Forum emphasised the need for closer collaboration between Greek and international research centres, start-ups, and industry stakeholders.

• The Forum was attended by a total of 350 people from 19 countries, including 172 students, as well as 104 speakers representing more than 50 biotechnology companies from the U.S.A., Europe, and Greece.

“What we are trying to do is bring together researchers, people with experience in the field and in business creation, as well as investors. We hope that this ‘connection’, this interaction, will help further develop this sector in Greece. We want to show that Greece can become an equal player on the global biotechnology map, provided that the right conditions are created, along with a mindset of collaboration. For us, the Latsis Foundation is not just a supporter but a strategic partner in building a modern ecosystem of biotechnological innovation in Greece.”

Nikos Kyrpides

Biologist – Researcher

Head of Microbiome Data Science, Joint Genome Institute

Conference Chair, “Bio3” Forum