The New Orleans BioInnovation Center is gearing up for the fifth annual BioChallenge, a competition for life sciences startups. Applications are due by September 15.
Companies are eligible if they are developing a technology in the life sciences, such as biotechnology, healthcare, environmental science, advanced materials, or other industries. Applicants must have received no more than $1 million in investments and must have significant operations in the state.
“One of the competition’s objectives is to foster emerging businesses that will generate jobs and economic growth here in Louisiana,” explains the BioInnovation Center.
The BioChallenge is part of the Innovation Louisiana conference, the annual life sciences entrepreneurship conference that attracts attendees and speakers from across the country. The events throughout the week are aimed at educating innovators, fostering collaboration, and giving the wider community insights into the groundbreaking research being done across Louisiana both within universities and in startups.
There is over $50,000 worth of prizes up for grabs at the final public pitch event on Wednesday, November 16 at the Joy Theater. Each startup will pitch for eight minutes to a panel of investors who will be announced soon.
The grand prize winner will receive $25,000. An additional $25,000 investment is available through the New Orleans BioFund Prize, and the Audience Favorite Award will provide one entrepreneur with $2,500 cash.