(Virtual) Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals (November Cohort)
Virtual Training
November Cohort
OBIO® is proud to partner with Upskill Canada [powered by Palette Skills] and the Government of Canada to deliver the Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals. The program will focus on the critical intersection of software development and cybersecurity, particularly in the context of health products and medical devices. It will cover regulatory aspects as outlined in Health Canada’s guidance for software as a medical device, addressing data compliance, and secure data management throughout the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
Virtual Training
Part I – Core Training Course (Weeks 1 & 5)
Week #1:
Dates: Nov. 10, Nov. 12
Time: 6 - 10 pm ET
Week #2:
Dates: Nov. 17, Nov. 19
Time: 6 - 10 pm ET
Week #3
Dates: Nov. 24, Nov. 26
Time: 6 - 10 pm ET
Week #4:
Dates: Dec. 1, Dec. 03
Time: 6 - 10 pm ET
Week #5:
Dates: Dec 8, Dec. 10
Time: 6 - 10 pm ET
Part II – Career Advancement support (Weeks 6 to 14)
Format: Hybrid
Biomanufacturing for Advanced Therapies Training Program
The biomanufacturing sector for advanced therapies is experiencing rapid growth and an escalating demand for personnel with specialized skill sets compared to conventional biopharmaceutical manufacturing. To address this need, OBIO® and CATTI have partnered to deliver the Biomanufacturing for Advanced Therapies Training Program, including cell and gene therapy (CGT), funded by Upskill Canada [powered by Palette Skills] and the Government of Canada.
The program focuses on both conceptual and practical skills essential to the development and manufacturing of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs), with a curriculum developed through extensive collaborations with companies in the sector developing CGTs and tailored to meet their specialized workforce needs.
Upcoming sessions:
December 1-5 | Aseptic Techniques & Cell Culture – Guelph
December 8-12 | Aseptic Techniques & Cell Culture – Guelph
January 19-23 | Closed System Manufacturing, CAR-T and Immunotherapies – Guelph
January 26 | Aseptic Techniques & Cell Culture – Montreal
February 2-6 | Aseptic Techniques & Cell Culture – Vancouver
February 9-13 | Aseptic Techniques & Cell Culture – Carleton (Ottawa)
February 24 | Closed System Manufacturing, CAR-T and Immunotherapies – Guelph
March 2-6 | Quality Control & Microbiology – Guelph
March 9-13 | Closed System Manufacturing, CAR-T and Immunotherapies – Guelph
March 16-20 | Aseptic Techniques & Cell Culture – Guelph
2026 OBIO® Investment Summit
2026 OBIO® Investment Summit
CANADA’S PREMIER HEALTH SCIENCE INVESTMENT EVENT
The OBIO® Investment Summit and Early Technology Showcase is a forum to connect global investors with growing companies, our best technology innovators and ecosystem partners. The Summit also includes the Pharma and MedTech Business Development Forum, which brings together Canada’s life science companies with corporate venture professionals to explore partnerships and licensing opportunities.
Since 2018, the OBIO® Investment Summit has presented high-quality, pre-vetted deal flow to global investors. In addition, the Summit’s Early Technology Showcase featured emerging companies coming out of Canada’s preeminent health research institutions.
To learn more about the OBIO® Investment Summit, visit: www.obioinvestmentsummit.com.
Networking Reception at the OBIO® Investment Summit
As part of the 2026 OBIO® Investment Summit, OBIO® members and ecosystem partners are invited to join us for an evening of networking at the Arcadian Court & Loft in Toronto.
Enjoy drinks & hors oeuvres while catching up with friends, partners and the wider ecosystem, and celebrating the spirit of life sciences innovation.
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Registration spots are limited. Please purchase your tickets early
and spread the word with your colleagues.
*NOTE*
If you are already attending the Summit as a presenting company, Early Technology Showcase partner, sponsor or investor, the reception is already included in your registration.
Breakfast Seminar: Funding Foundations and Equity Incentives
Join OBIO® and Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP on November 18 for a breakfast seminar to learn about Funding Foundations and Equity Incentives. This session will consider actions to smooth the path to a fundraising and some of the common issues that arise, including appropriate strategies for engaging employees and consultants and the use of equity incentives such as options.
Learning opportunities:
Actions to take in preparation for fundraising and common pitfalls
Appropriate practices in engaging and managing employees and consultants
Considerations in the use of equity incentives such as options
Meet our Speakers from Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
Chris Jones, Partner (Securities, ECVC, Life Sciences) | Toronto
Laura Blumenfeld, Partner (Employment & Labour) | Toronto
Mark Firman, Partner (Pensions & Benefits) | Toronto
Agenda
8:30 - 9am: Registration & Breakfast
9 - 10:30 am: Seminar
10:30 - 11 am: Networking
Ticket prices:
OBIO® Members: Free
Please register using your company email address.
Non-Members: $15
Questions? Contact us at membership@obio.ca.
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: From Bench to Business: Commercializing Your IP to Be Investor Ready
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast:
From Bench to Business: Commercializing Your IP to Be Investor Ready
Join us at our next OBIO® Women in Health Initiative (WiHI) breakfast on November 14. This founder-focused session zeroes in on the grant of IP rights: what you give, what you keep, and how to preserve flexibility as you scale. Attendees will walk away with a crisp negotiation framework and actionable guardrails to protect their core intellectual property today while preserving financing and partnership flexibility for tomorrow.
We will translate complex deal mechanics into practical guardrails for entrepreneurs, including:
demystifying the difference (if any) between license agreements, collaboration agreement, alliance agreements, partnership agreements, etc.
the difference between sole ownership, joint ownership and licenses
ownership of background intellectual property, arising intellectual property and improvements
properly scoping the field and territory
exclusivity and anti-shelving
royalties, revenue sharing, reductions and claw backs
indemnification and limitation of liability
most favoured nations and rights of first refusals
reversion rights and transition plans
investor diligence matters
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
Beyond the Obvious: Metrics That Matter for Early-Commercial HealthTech Companies
Beyond the Obvious: Metrics That Matter for Early-Commercial HealthTech Companies
Bring your morning coffee and come learn about scale-up metrics you should be tracking to demonstrate traction.
Brought to you by OBIO® and MaRS, if you're gearing up to grow from early revenue $1M to $10M+, this workshop breaks down the commercial and non-obvious scale-up metrics investors look for when assessing companies transitioning into early revenue generating business. Learn how to forecast, measure, and present the numbers that actually drive VC conviction and funding, with MaRS capital advisor Billy Lai.
Due to the limited space of the venue, all registered attendees must be approved and priority goes to Health Tech companies participating in our competitive accelerator programs and in early revenue. This is an in-person event only.
To learn more or to register, please write to Jack Lee.
Networking Mixer: Breaking into Biotech
OBIO® and CATTI are pleased to invite you to their upcoming Networking Mixer event in Vancouver, part of the Biomanufacturing for Advanced Therapies Training Program.
Hosted in partnership with The BC Biotech Network and sponsored by STEMCELL Technologies, this evening mixer brings together past and current program participants, industry professionals, academic leaders, and innovators to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and spark future collaborations in the life sciences ecosystem.
We look forward to seeing you there. Everyone is welcome to register!
Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM PT
Location: BREWHALL Market (Drink Lab), 97 East 2nd Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5T 1B3
Cost: Non-members: $15.00+tax / Members: free
2 drink tickets & hors d’oeuvres included
OBIO® members can attend this event for free.
Please register using your company email address.
Questions? Contact us at:
membership@obio.ca.
We look forward to seeing you there!
SOLD OUT
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: The IP Pathway: turning research into market authorization and everything in between
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast:
The IP Pathway: turning research into market authorization and everything in between
Join us at our next OBIO® Women in Health Initiative (WiHI) breakfast on October 24 for an interactive discussion to gain a clear understanding of the fundamentals of IP licensing and what to expect in early-stage deals.
This session will cover the following:
IP 101 – How can I protect my IP?
The Do’s and Don’ts
What are the most common types of protections
To patent or not to patent – that is the question. — Timing and other considerations
Potential IP Pitfalls
IP and Commercialization
Ways of granting IP rights
The ‘how to’ for managing relationships of stakeholders (employees, founders, incubators, investors, academic institutions and universities)
How do I move IP from a university (IP policies, commercialization and terms of grant funding).
Negotiation points and red flags
AGENDA
9:00–9:25 am: Welcome, breakfast & networking
9:25-9:30 am: WiHI Seed program - special announcement
Join us to meet the founders of the companies selected for the third cohort of the WiHI Seed program
9:30–10:00 am: Presentation
10:00–10:30 am: Q&A
10:30–11:00 am: Founder mixer
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
The Future of Health Innovation in Canada with AI
The Future of Health Innovation in Canada with AI
This event is sold out! Thank you for your interest.
Join OBIO® for an exciting event to discover how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare in Canada. Explore the latest trends in AI, hear how leading corporations are enabling AI adoption in health systems, and learn from real-world success stories from hospitals and industry experts.
Panel discussions will also highlight key considerations in product development, the future of AI in Canada and the opportunities it creates for start-ups, healthcare organizations, and the broader ecosystem.
Panel 1: Beyond the Hype: Real-World AI Breakthroughs in Healthcare Industries
Moderator
Speakers
Panel 2: Transforming Patient Care with AI: Real Stories from Canadian Hospitals
Moderator
Speakers
The event will conclude with a networking reception.
Agenda
1:30 – Doors open for registration
2:00 PM – Opening remarks
2:15 PM – Panel 1: Beyond the Hype: Real-World AI Breakthroughs in Healthcare Industries
3:00 PM - Break (15 minutes)
3:15 PM – Panel 2: Transforming Patient Care with AI: Real Stories from Canadian Hospitals
4:00 PM – Networking
This event is sold out! Thank you for your interest.
Networking Mixer: Where Health Meets Cybersecurity
Networking Mixer:
Where Health Meets Cybersecurity
OBIO® is pleased to invite you to its upcoming Networking Mixer event in Ottawa, as part of its Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training Program. Hosted in partnership with Invest Ottawa, this evening mixer brings together past and current program participants, industry professionals, academic leaders, and innovators to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and spark future collaborations.
Date: Monday, October 6, 2025
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM ET
Location: Craft Beer Market – 975 Bank St., Ottawa
Cost: $15.00+tax - 2 drink tickets & hors d’oeuvres included
OBIO® members can attend this event for free.
Please register using your company email address.
Questions? Contact us at membership@obio.ca.
We look forward to seeing you there!
(In Person) Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals
In Person Training
October Cohort
In partnership with
OBIO® is proud to partner with Upskill Canada [powered by Palette Skills] and the Government of Canada to deliver the Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals. The program will focus on the critical intersection of software development and cybersecurity, particularly in the context of health products and medical devices. It will cover regulatory aspects as outlined in Health Canada’s guidance for software as a medical device, addressing data compliance, and secure data management throughout the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
In Person Training
Part I – Core Training: 2-Day In-Person Course in Ottawa (week 1)
Dates & Time
October 6th, 8am - 5:30pm
October 7th, 8am - 5:30pm
Part II – Career Advancement support (week 2 to 10)
Format: Hybrid
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Pitching with Purpose: Navigating Investor Conversations in Challenging Times
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast:
Pitching with Purpose: Navigating Investor Conversations in Challenging Times
Join us for a session on September 19, designed to perfect your pitch and build confidence when engaging with investors and angels as you prepare to fundraise across Canada, the U.S., and Europe.
The session will feature insights from an entrepreneur, a lawyer & a VC, and cover the following:
• Practical do’s and don’ts of pitching to investors
• What VCs and angels are truly looking for
• Candid perspectives on navigating today’s investment climate
• Peer learning in a women-inclusive, founder-forward environment
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
OBIO’s Annual Public Meeting & Reception 2025
Lights, Camera… Red Carpet!
September 16 I 5 – 8 pm I Toronto
**The event is sold out! Thank you for your interest.**
Get ready to celebrate with OBIO®!
OBIO® invites you to a red-carpet celebration of life sciences at our Annual Public Meeting & Reception on Tuesday, September 16, from 5–8 PM. Hosted at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP in downtown Toronto, this special evening will shine a spotlight on life sciences and health tech superstars, biotech icons, healthcare legends, and trailblazing companies that put our ecosystem on the global stage.
We’ll reflect on our milestones in 2025 and extend heartfelt thanks to our board of directors, members, and ecosystem partners for their unwavering support and contribution to our vibrant sector.
Special Highlights
Pitching Competition: Watch companies we've supported along their journey take part in a fun competition inspired by the silver screen. Entertainment guaranteed!
Networking Reception: Enjoy drinks & hors d’oeuvres, while catching up with friends, partners and the wider ecosystem, and celebrating the spirit of life sciences innovation.
Ticket prices:
OBIO® Members: $40
Non-Members: $80
The Corporate Development Imperative – Don’t ignore it
The Corporate Development Imperative – Don’t ignore it
Including an update on C.H.I.E.F.S.
The importance of Corporate Development has been diminished or overlooked within the Canadian health innovation ecosystem. Drawing on his extensive professional background, Dan Wasserman, CEO of Mammoth Health Innovation, will describe how strategic visibility = strategic growth and how a consistent approach brings compound benefits.
Dan will discuss:
Public Relations & Media Engagement
Events as Development Platforms
Networking Across Channels
Questions to be addressed:
What is Corporate Development?
Why is it important?
What will it take to get Corporate Development right?
Learning Objectives:
The importance of adaptability and building reputation
Corporate development as a process, not a one-time initiative
We look forward to seeing you there!
(Virtual) Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals
Virtual Training
September Cohort
OBIO® is proud to partner with Upskill Canada [powered by Palette Skills] and the Government of Canada to deliver the Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals. The program will focus on the critical intersection of software development and cybersecurity, particularly in the context of health products and medical devices. It will cover regulatory aspects as outlined in Health Canada’s guidance for software as a medical device, addressing data compliance, and secure data management throughout the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
Virtual Training
Part I – Core Training Course (Weeks 1 & 5)
Week #1:
Dates: Sept. 08, 10, 11
Time: 6pm to 10pm ET
Week #2:
Dates: Sept. 15, 17, 18
Time: 6pm to 10pm ET
Week #3
No training
Week #4:
Dates: Sept. 29, Oct. 1
Time: 6pm to 10pm ET
Week #5:
Dates: Oct. 8, 9
Time: 6pm to 10pm ET
Part II – Career Advancement support (Weeks 6 to 14)
Format: Hybrid
Networking Mixer: Brewing up connections in Biomanufacturing
Networking Mixer:
Brewing up connections in Biomanufacturing
OBIO® and CATTI are pleased to invite you to the upcoming Networking Mixer event in Ottawa, part of the Biomanufacturing for Advanced Therapies Training Program.
Hosted in partnership with Capital BioVentures and sponsored by Welch LLP, this evening mixer brings together past and current program participants, industry professionals, academic leaders, and innovators to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and spark future collaborations.
We look forward to seeing you there!
OBIO® members can attend for free by using the discount code available in the OBIO® member portal.
Designing AI-Ready Labs: From Data Chaos to Intelligence
Are you a biotech start-up or academic lab looking to turn your traditional lab into an AI-powered lab?
Join us on for this hands-on workshop supported by OBIO® and featuring guest speaker Guru Singh, CEO of Scispot, to learn how to transform messy lab data into structured, AI-ready formats that drive discovery and turn chaos into a competitive advantage.
Guest Speaker:
Guru Singh
CEO of Scispot
Date: Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Time: 11:30 am–1:30 pm
Location:
Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus
108 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 0C6
Learn how to:
Structure your lab data
Automate data pipelines
Build scientific knowledge graphs
Prepare for AI
Key takeaways:
AI-ready data roadmap
Greater efficiency
Deeper insights
Future-proofing skills
*Bonus*
Participants will get a copy of the AI-Ready Labs Playbook, packed with best practices, checklists and templates.
Space is limited, and this high-impact session will fill up fast!
Buzzed for Bio
Buzzed for Bio
You’re invited to attend a fun night of summer networking hosted by CDD and OBIO®!
Join us for a relaxing, after-hours gathering bringing together biotech experts and members of the life sciences community. Come catch up with your peers or make some new connections!
When: July 10, 2025 at 5:30 pm
Where: Grizzly Bar in Toronto (739 Queen Street West)
What: A buzzing evening with some drinks & bites.
We hope you can make it and look forward to celebrating with you!
Space is limited, so register now.
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: What You Need to Know About Raising Money in 2025
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: What You Need to Know About Raising Money in 2025
Following the resounding success of the May 30 session on this exciting topic, we've decided to hold another one on June 23 to continue our conversation and provide more insights.
Were you unable to attend the May 30 session? Not a problem! You are welcome to join us on June 23.
Join OBIO® for a fireside chat with legal and venture capital experts
Sarah Farr, Senior Associate at Genesys Capital and Jennifer Humphrey, Associate, Emerging and High Growth Companies at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP to understand the current climate for fundraising.
This session will include:
Trends uncovered by Osler’s fourth annual “Deal Points Report: Venture Capital Financings”
Osler’s Emerging and High Growth Companies Group is an analysis of 646 anonymized venture capital and growth equity preferred share financings completed from 2020 to 2024, representing more than USD 11.5 billion in total transaction value.
Key implications for founders in life sciences and health tech raising money
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
The AI Opportunity: Revolutionizing Clinical Trials, Transforming Healthcare
The AI Opportunity: Revolutionizing Clinical Trials, Transforming Healthcare
Special event at the 2025 BIO International Convention in Boston
Clinical Trials Ontario, Life Sciences Ontario, and OBIO® are bringing industry and research leaders together in Boston for an in-person event showcasing how artificial intelligence is transforming clinical trials and healthcare delivery.
Join the event on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the Westin Boston Seaport District for a morning of insights and networking as we explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping clinical trials and the broader healthcare landscape.
Key discussion areas include:
Impact of AI on clinical trials and data integration
Ontario and Canada’s advantages in conducting AI-driven research and innovation
Opportunities to enhance patient care and accelerate therapeutic development
Designed for leaders in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, CROs, and business and healthcare innovators, this event highlights the strength of Canada’s research ecosystem and its role in advancing the future of global healthcare.
Meet the panelists:
Dr. Christine Allen, PhD
CEO of Intrepid Labs;
Co-Director of Acceleration Consortium at UofT
Anthony de Fazekas
Partner, IP at Mintz
Sebastien Latapie
Partner at Avant BIO
Dr. Fahad Razak, MD,
Provincial Clinical Lead at Ontario Health; Co-Lead at GEMINI;
Canada Research Chair in Data-Informed Healthcare Improvement at UofT
Lucas Siow
Co-founder & CEO of ProteinQure
The event is sponsored by:
Funding Foundations: Navigating Your Start-up's Capital Raise
Join us for an informative session on June 10 in Ottawa co-hosted by Capital BioVentures and OBIO® designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of early-stage financing, and learn about essential topics and strategies such as:
Term sheets: Decoding key terms, negotiation strategies, and common pitfalls.
SAFEs vs. convertible notes vs. priced rounds: Understanding pros, cons, and when to use each instrument.
Valuation considerations: Valuation caps, how valuation caps work in SAFE notes, and discount rates.
Negotiation tactics: Approaches for successful investor discussions and agreement terms.
Legal & financial implications: Equity dilution, important clauses, and ongoing obligations.
This session will focus on practical advice and provide you with the strategies and tools you need to successfully navigate the start-up funding process. We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event – sponsored by Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP*
Registration for this event is now closed.
Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals
As Canada accelerates the commercialization and adoption of digital technologies into the fast-growing health science industry, there is a critical need to create high-value technology jobs and support the development of talent in the technology workforce.
OBIO® is proud to partner with Upskill Canada [powered by Palette Skills] and the Government of Canada to deliver the Cybersecurity & Digital Health Training for Health Science Professionals. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of cybersecurity in healthcare, examining the latest trends, potential threats, and their impact on the industry.
The program will provide focused upskilling to help fast-growing companies access the talent they need to thrive and prosper, while creating new career paths for workers to quickly transition into high-demand roles.
THE PROGRAM RUNS FROM
MAY 12 to AUGUST 22, 2025 (14 WEEKS):
Part I – Core Training Course (Weeks 1 & 2)
Dates: May 12 - 23, 2025
Time: 8:30 am – 1 pm ET daily
Format: Virtual
Part II – Career Advancement support (Weeks 3 to 14).
Format: Hybrid
During this time, program participants will have access to a range of benefits:
Workshops for Professional Skills Development including career advancement support, resume, interview preparation and 1:1 coaching sessions (virtual) as well as networking events (in person)
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Deloitte x OBIO Breakfast - Impact on Canadian Founders: Equity Considerations for US and Cross-Border Corporate Tax
Join us for a morning of insightful conversation and networking at the Deloitte x OBIO Breakfast on May 6, focused on the impact of venture financing from the US and the impact of cross-border corporate tax for Canadian life-science founders. This event is a great opportunity to hear from tax liability experts, ask your questions, and connect with peers navigating similar challenges as they take on sizable foreign investment.
We'll be discussing consideration for expansion into the US with the impact on corporate taxes, ensuring your company is optimally structured for getting high exit milestones without incurring significant tax burdens, as well as price transfers and exchangeable shares when onboarding foreign shareholders.
You'll surely leave with practical knowledge to help guide your next steps. Coffee and breakfast will be served—come hungry for both food and ideas!
Meet the Experts:
Jigna Shah - Partner, Global Investment and Innovation Incentives
Brent Osborne - Partner, International Tax
Michael Xiang - Partner, US Tax
Teresa Russomanno - Director, Business Tax
Chris Watt Bickley - Partner, Cross Border Tax
Lynn Wu - Senior Manager, Business Tax
*Note: Approval Required. Your registration is subject to approval by the host*
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Benefits of Being a Canadian-controlled Private Corporation
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Benefits of Being a Canadian-controlled Private Corporation
Join us at our next breakfast session featuring guest speakers Gary Marshall (Partner, Emerging and High Growth Companies at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP) and Jennifer Humphrey (Associate, Emerging and High Growth Companies at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP).
This session will cover the following topics:
Benefits of Being a CCPC: We will explore the advantages Canadian-Controlled Private Corporations (CCPCs) offer, including access to government credits and grants, tax deferrals and strategic planning on an exit and benefits to Canadian option holders.
Considerations for Delaware Continuance: We will briefly discuss the various considerations and implications for entities contemplating a move to Delaware to help founders make an informed decision.
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Setting up a Life Sciences Business in the UK - Tips & Strategies
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Setting up a Life Sciences Business in the UK - Tips & Strategies
Join us at our next OBIO® Women in Health Initiative (WiHI) breakfast on March 27 for an insightful session designed to help life sciences start-ups establish themselves in the UK.
We will be welcoming guest speakers Emily Addison (Country Director, Canada at UK Department of Business and Trade), and Rachael Stevens (Head of Science and Innovation – Ontario at Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office).
This session will address the following topics:
Overview of the UK life sciences sector; R&D strengths, clusters
Why would companies want to set up in the UK
How to set up in the UK and work with the UK Department of Business and Trade
Government incentives
Key high-growth areas - Health AI/ Digital Health, Medical Technical technology (prevention and early diagnosis); Cell & Gene therapy, Sustainability in the NHS, Engineering Biology
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
OBIO’s International Women's Day Celebration
OBIO’s International Women's Day Celebration
OBIO’s International Women’s Day Celebration will bring together dynamic women leaders across the health tech and life sciences industry. This event is a unique platform where investors, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals will gather to celebrate and empower women-driven innovations.
Event Highlights:
We will be hosting a panel discussion on "Future-Proofing Your Company and Career: Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Life Sciences".
WiHI Seed companies will pitch their groundbreaking solutions, showcasing the incredible potential of women-led start-ups to advance the future of healthcare.
Agenda
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Registration & networking
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Welcome & Opening Remarks
Dr. Maura Campbell, President & CEO, OBIO®
Cate Murray, President & CEO, Stem Cell Network
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Panel discussion:
“Future-Proofing Your Company and Career: Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Life Sciences".Panelists:
Connie Chen, PhD - Sr. Director, Strategy & Corporate Development at FACIT
Jennifer Humphrey - Associate, Emerging and High Growth Companies at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Catherine Hunter - Partner and National Leader, Consumer Health and Life Sciences at EY
Cheryl J. Kerr - Founder and President of Medex Health Services Incorporated
Moderator: Maura Campbell, PhD - President and CEO of OBIO®
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Networking break
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Join us to listen to 5-minute pitches from 7 WiHI Seed companies.
AiimSense
Aptec Health
Asima Health
Cura Therapeutics
Flutter Care
SanoLiving
Women’s Global Health Innovation (BFree Cup)
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Announcements & Pitch Prizes Distribution
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Closing remarks
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Networking
Meet our panelists
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With over 20 years of experience in life sciences, biotech and capital markets, Dr. Connie Chen brings extensive experience in investment banking, seed investing, start-up and corporate development to her role at FACIT. FACIT is an award-winning commercialization venture firm that builds companies with entrepreneurs to accelerate oncology innovation. Its portfolio includes Triphase Accelerator, Turnstone Biologics, and Fusion Pharmaceuticals, and which has attracted over $1 billion in investment to Ontario. Dr. Chen is part of the senior leadership at FACIT, driving strategies to translate biotechnologies into business opportunities, grow sustainable start-ups and establish commercial partnerships to drive value for cancer assets. Dr. Chen’s broad investment, transaction and strategic experience arises from various corporate development, investor relations and equity research roles including at Functional Technologies (Renaissance BioScience), Loewen, Ondaatje and McCutcheon, and Clarus Securities. Dr. Chen holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Toronto.
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Jennifer is an associate in our Emerging and High Growth Companies Group. Her practice focuses on advising a wide range of clients on matters including mergers and acquisitions, continuous disclosure, equity and debt financings, as well as general corporate and securities related matters.
Prior to joining Osler, Jennifer worked as a corporate securities associate at a leading regional Bay Street firm. She is an active member of the legal community and is a mentor to first year law students at Ryerson University.
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Catherine is a Partner and the National Life Sciences Leader with EY Canada. Throughout her 25+ year career in consulting and industry, Catherine has worked with health service providers, pharmaceutical and med tech companies, and government to develop and deliver health-focused strategies and technology-enabled transformations for strategic growth, operational improvement and consumer focus. Catherine brings a deep understanding of the health ecosystem and has a particular interest in innovation and how diverse organizations can effectively work together to meet Canadians’ evolving health needs.
Catherine holds an MBA (Health Services Management) from McMaster University and a BScH (Life Sciences) from Queen’s University. She has served on several health related Boards at local and national levels, and is currently a Board Director with the Women’s Brain Health Initiative.
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Ms. Kerr is a serial health services entrepreneur with over 30 years’ experience as a leader in the healthcare field.
Ms. Kerr has honed vast diagnostic and paramedical experience through her tenure at Med Chem Laboratories, Rapidmed Paramedical and Gamma Dyna Care laboratory services. Having mastered the full spectrum of medical diagnostics and home care services. Ms Kerr then launched MedEx Health Services in 2008 with operations in Canada and the USA.
Ms. Kerr’s expertise includes outpatient care and ambulatory services, with an emphasis on coordinating and implementing rehabilitation services in the accident benefits and disability management industry. MedEx has developed into one of Ontario’s leading accredited Black female-owned and operated, full-service rehabilitation and home healthcare company, catering to a diverse client base.
An active philanthropist and community advocate, Ms. Kerr is dedicated to supporting organizations that provide service and care to those who are less fortunate. For her efforts she was awarded the Bob Marley Toronto Humanitarian award for 2023.
Ms. Kerr is the 2020 recipient of the BBPA’s Harry Jerome female entrepreneur business Award as well as a 2020 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women (100 ABC) Honoree. She was recognized by the RBC Champions for Women in 2006, and also received The National African American Insurance Association Award in 2007. She has established a distinguished reputation with various professional organizations, such as the Ontario Brain Injury Association, the Canadian Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Association, and The Black Physicians Association of Ontario.
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Dr. Maura Campbell is the President and CEO of OBIO®, a not-for-profit, membership-based organization dedicated to advancing health technology innovation and commercialization. Dr. Campbell has more than 30 years of experience in all key areas of biotech, including private and public companies, universities and research institutes, and government-funded public sector research organizations.
With expertise in technology transfer and commercialization of intellectual property, Dr. Campbell has held various roles in senior management, most recently as the Vice-President of Intellectual Property and Contracts for Turnstone Biologics, which recently went public on the NASDAQ. Previously, Dr. Campbell served as: Director, Intellectual Property at VBI Vaccines; Research Program Manager, and Manager of Technology Transfer & Commercialization at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute; Director of Intellectual Property for PainCeptor Pharma Corporation; and Manager of Technology Transfer at the Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Systems National Centre of Excellence. Dr. Campbell has also served as an IP consultant to a number of Canadian start-ups including Neurochem, Conjuchem, Aonix, AMRIC and Sussex Research Labs.
Dr. Campbell received a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Ottawa, and an M.Sc. and a B.Sc. in biochemistry from Queen’s University in Kingston. Dr. Campbell served as the Vice-Chair of Ontario’s Life Sciences Council, supporting a plan to make Ontario a top hub for innovation growth and life sciences investment. She currently serves as a board member for FACIT (a business accelerator and investor established by the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research), SPEC Labs (a life sciences incubator and healthcare & life sciences innovation hub) and Intellectual Property Ontario (a provincial agency providing trusted IP support for Ontario innovators).
Meet our pitching companies
The event is a great opportunity for attendees to network, collaborate, and invest in the next wave of healthcare innovations, while amplifying the voices of the women shaping the industry.
Thank you to our sponsors for their support!
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: IP Strategy for Growth: From Concept to Commercialization - Developing an IP Roadmap
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: IP Strategy for Growth: From Concept to Commercialization - Developing an IP Roadmap
Join us for our next event in the OBIO® WiHI Breakfast Series, "IP Strategy for Growth: From Concept to Commercialization - Developing an IP Roadmap."
This insightful session will feature Jean-Nicolas Delage, Partner, Emerging and High Growth Companies at Osler, which specializes in intellectual property strategy and transactions.
Jean-Nicolas will guide participants through the crucial steps of building and protecting an IP portfolio to support long-term growth, from initial concept to market entry. Drawing on his extensive experience in advising emerging technology companies and his expertise in patent pools and standardization processes, he will offer valuable insights on developing effective IP strategies.
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
Networking Reception at the OBIO® Investment Summit
As part of the 2025 OBIO® Investment Summit, OBIO® members and ecosystem partners are invited to join us for an evening of networking.
Date: Thursday, February 6
Time: 6 - 9 pm
Location:
Arcadian Court & Loft
401 Bay Street, Simpson Tower, 8th Floor
Toronto, ON M5H 2Y4
If you are already attending the Summit as a presenting company, Early Technology Showcase partner, sponsor or investor, then the reception is already included in your registration.
If you are a paid OBIO® member, check your inbox for a discount link or write to us at events@obio.ca.
Thank you to our Platinum sponsor Collaborative Drug Discovery for supporting the networking reception!
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Funding Foundations: Navigating Your Start-up's First Capital Raise
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Funding Foundations: Navigating Your Start-up's First Capital Raise
Kick off the new year with the first WiHI Women Leaders in Health breakfast of 2025!
Join us for an informative session designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of early-stage financing, and learn about essential topics and strategies such as:
Term sheets: Decoding key terms, negotiation strategies, and common pitfalls.
SAFEs vs. convertible notes vs. priced rounds: Understanding pros, cons, and when to use each instrument.
Valuation considerations: Valuation caps, how valuation caps work in SAFE notes, and discount rates.
Negotiation tactics: Approaches for successful investor discussions and agreement terms.
Legal & financial implications: Equity dilution, important clauses, and ongoing obligations.
This session will focus on practical advice and provide you with the strategies and tools you need to successfully navigate the start-up funding process.
We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event.
Levelling the playing field: how Canadian health tech innovators can compete with U.S. companies during a time of protectionism
Levelling the playing field: how Canadian health tech innovators can compete with U.S. companies during a time of protectionism
Canadian health tech innovators are facing an increasingly complex landscape. With tight funding, a U.S. "home court" advantage, and a shifting political climate, succeeding in the global market – particularly the U.S. – is more challenging than ever.
Discover how to navigate these challenges as we explore C.H.I.E.F.S. (Canadian Health Innovation Evaluation For Success), a powerful tool created by Mammoth to help Canadian health SMEs compete with U.S. innovators.
Backed by empirical data, this tool is built on 50 proprietary criteria, grouped into 10 core functions and distilled into 6 key priorities.
Key Learning Objectives:
Recognize unappreciated deficiencies (use of funds and exit strategy)
Unlock the key to winning pitch competitions
Address the post-election uncertainty in the U.S. and how it affects your market approach
Given the recent U.S. election and the complete change in leadership, C.H.I.E.F.S. is more critical than ever to help navigate the evolving health tech landscape for innovators.
Reserve your spot today!
OBIO’s Annual General Meeting, Public Meeting & Reception 2024
OBIO’s Annual Public Meeting & Reception 2024
Get ready to celebrate with OBIO®!
Join us for our Annual Public Meeting and Reception for an evening of innovation, inspiration and fun on Thursday, December 5, from 5 to 8pm at the Royal Canadian Military Institute.
We’ll be celebrating our accomplishments in 2024 and taking the opportunity to thank our board of directors, members and ecosystem partners, embracing the spirit of collaboration.
This year’s event will be especially memorable, as we proudly celebrate OBIO's 15th anniversary.
✨ Special Highlights ✨
Improv Pitching Competition: Watch founders we've supported along their journey go off-script as they present “surprise” slide decks, challenging them to be spontaneous and inventive! Your vote will decide who your favourite presenter is!
Networking Reception: Enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres, catch up with friends and partners from other start-ups, ventures and the wider ecosystem—all while celebrating the spirit of innovation that makes us strong.
Registration spots are limited so please purchase your tickets early!
We look forward to seeing you there!
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Navigating Employment and Employee Incentives for Life Science Start-ups
OBIO® WiHI Breakfast: Navigating Employment and Employee Incentives for Life Science Start-ups
The OBIO® Women in Health Initiative (WiHI) is excited to announce its upcoming breakfast session on November 27, focusing on essential employment law and employee incentive strategies for start-ups. This session is ideally suited for start-up founders, executives and leaders in life sciences seeking practical guidance on the following topics:
Employee stock options and taxation - covering option grants, tax treatment, and market terms
Employee benefits and hiring & termination management
Take advantage of this opportunity to connect with fellow women leaders and pioneers in the field over breakfast, followed by engaging insights and a lively panel discussion. We look forward to seeing you there!
*This is an invitation-only event. Are you (or any women in your network) interested in attending? Click here and we will connect with you (or them).
Meet our guest speakers
Healthy IP Strategies in Life Sciences & Health Tech
Healthy IP Strategies in Life Sciences & Health Tech
Join us for an informative event where top IP experts, visionary founders, and industry leaders come together to share valuable insights on protecting your intellectual property and staying ahead in the fast-paced landscape of the life sciences and health tech industries!
Attendees will:
Learn how to protect their IP as healthcare innovators
Gain an understanding of IP strategies for different types of innovations
Understand how to prepare for due diligence and licensing
Uncover various IP support programs
Network with peers and industry leaders