Takeaways from the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference

I had the pleasure of attending the J.P. 摩根 Healthcare Conference in San Francisco this past week with OLS managing director of investor relations Jon Snyder and leaders from JobsOhio ’s healthcare and life sciences sector, Tyler Allchin and Joshua Hoffman . It was an incredibly productive experience. My primary goal was to build stronger relationships with investors and companies outside of Ohio and help them understand the fantastic life sciences innovations being developed in and around the Ohio Discovery Corridor .?

The week was packed with insightful events and meetings. In addition to the usual pop-up meetings, many receptions, and a tour of SmartLabs ’ South San Francisco facility, I attended the programming and activities hosted at the #BiotechShowcase and the Bullpen . There, I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with companies like Persephoni BioPartners and 诺和诺德 . Both companies expressed a keen interest in establishing stronger ties with Ohio, recognizing the potential of our life sciences sector.?

I was also delighted to spend time with our members, including our newest member, Cooley LLP and JP Morgan regulars like Forge Biologics , Armatus Bio, Inc. , CincyTech , and CMC Pharmaceuticals, Inc. . These interactions were invaluable in helping me better understand our unique opportunities and challenges in Ohio compared to other key markets.?

The week started with a fantastic networking event, organized in partnership with other state bio associations. At least 50 Ohio life sciences leaders gathered with leaders from other states nationwide, setting the tone for a week of productive discussions and collaborations.?

Here are my key takeaways from the conference:?

• Cautious Optimism: There is cautious optimism about increased investment activity in 2025 blended with uncertainty about how the new administration will impact this potential activity.?
• Presenting and Networking: The conference reinforced the importance of ensuring our entrepreneurs attend these types of events to network and educate the investment ecosystem about Ohio's opportunities. Compared to other states, not enough Ohio companies presented.?
• Importance of capital: We must work harder to bring more investment dollars to Ohio. There remains a gap between our good science being created in Ohio and the investment dollars needed to support it. We need more access to Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A dollars to be competitive as a life sciences hub…70% of all VC money goes to California and Massachusetts, according to a recent report by MassBio . I want to create an environment where more Ohio IP can stay in Ohio.?

JobsOhio and Ohio Life Sciences remain committed to driving as much awareness as possible of our state’s life sciences innovations. We will continue to support our entrepreneurs and foster connections that can lead to significant advancements and investments in Ohio.?

Thank you to everyone who made this week a success. We are building a brighter future for Ohio’s life sciences sector-always interested in what ideas you have to help build it.?