Up for the BioRevolution Challenge
The challenge:
If you’re reading this, that means you have at least a passing interest in biotechnology. So, you may also be aware that Canada is on the cusp of being a global leader in this field. The issue is that, as it stands, we are teetering on the edge of greatness. The BioRevolution is underway and some countries are faring better than others because they have the support and community framework set up so they can thrive.
A unified vision, collaboration from a diverse group of stakeholders, easier commercialization and even the inclusion of under-represented groups in STEM fields have been the challenges our country has faced. But these aren’t obstacles that are too hard to overcome. In fact, it’s a task we welcome.
What are we doing about it:
There’s a saying that “if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together”. And that’s the very inspiration for Ontario Genomics every year when we host the Canada SynBio conference. Since 2018, we’ve been providing the ideal meeting place for academic and private collaborations to bloom, fast-tracking the commercialization of emerging technologies and SME support, all while establishing engineering biology as a field with very exciting potential.
Ontario Genomics has a long and very successful history of connecting the right people and organizations at the right time so they can take their research and innovations to the next level.
At SynBio, we’ve been hosting discussions on cutting-edge topics ranging from cellular agriculture, the circular economy and biomanufacturing across the health, food and cleantech sectors.
This has led to the creation of multiple national reports, economics cases and white papers, and solidified our organization as a thought leader by providing many opportunities during SynBio for attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the scientific progress going on in our very country, and not just through presentations and panel discussions. We’re also known for throwing some pretty great networking parties!
And people can’t get enough! SynBio 2023 attracted a diverse audience of 280+ attendees which included 25% graduate and undergraduate trainees, 20% industry professionals, 15% academics, 15% start-ups, 15% not-for-profit representatives, and 10% health and government stakeholders. Our 2024 conference has engaged International delegations and participants from the US, UK Netherlands, Ireland and Israel.
What's next:
We’re changing things up a bit for SynBio2024 by moving it to the fall and bringing attendees our most dynamic and diverse program to date (for the very latest, check out CanadaSynbio.ca). Ontario Genomics is laser focused on expanding the impact of our conference to drive significant progress in engineering biology. And of course, you’re invited to come along for the ride! Whether through funding, advocacy, policy-making, or active participation, you are crucial to our success and we invite you to join us as we fuel innovation, foster inclusivity, and build a resilient bioeconomy for Canada and the world. For more details, contact Luana Langlois Fiorotto, Strategic Partnerships Advisor.
