Showcasing Ontario's High Potential Companies: Niagara Health Science Emerging Company Forum, Part 2
OBIO - in partnership with Accel-Rx - hosted the Niagara Health Science Emerging Company Forum on February 1-2, which brought together CEOs and senior executives from high potential Canadian health science companies with senior leadership from American investors and strategics in beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake for two days of panel presentations, executive roundtables, networking dinners, and the opportunity to enjoy some of Canada’s finest wines.
On February 1st, the event kicked off with a CEO roundtable. More than 30 CEOs and senior executives, representing companies from seed stage to public, were in attendance. The roundtable provided the opportunity for entrepreneurs (both first-time and serial) to openly discuss the issues that they have faced, or currently face, in establishing and growing a business, as well as successes and opportunities. It was a rare opportunity for entrepreneurs to share ideas and perspectives with others in a similar situation. Topics included but were not limited to hiring the right team, financing strategies, managing employees, and how to recruit and work with your board. It was truly a highlight of the event, and the honest and open discussion allowed everyone to walk away with some great tips, as well as a strong network of peers.
Wwe received the following feedback from participants in the CEO roundtable on its value:
“I thought this was a very valuable session to hear how others dealt with issues we all face. Excellent, well done!”
“The best roundtable I have attended.”
To continue the conversations started at the CEO roundtable and during the panel sessions, the two-day program of the Forum also included plenty of social activities, which included a culinary experience with celebrity chef Jamie Kennedy at Windows by Jamie Kennedy, in full view of Niagara Falls in winter: one of the most dramatic and breathtaking times of the year to see the falls. On Friday, the Forum hit the road to tour some of the finest wineries in the region, including Peller Estates, Trius Winery, and Stratus Vineyards, and take part in tastings for ice wine and other local specialties.
All in all, the inaugural Niagara Health Science Emerging Company Forum was a great success. American investors and potential strategic partners were exposed to some of Canada’s most promising emerging medical technologies, while the companies were provided with invaluable advice and feedback, connections to potential investors and strategic partners, and a strong network of peers to provide them with the support necessary to ensure their success.
