The 11th Annual BioHealth Capital Region Week kicks off next week, September 23–25, 2025, at US Pharmacopeia in Rockville, MD. This year’s theme, “Where Human and Artificial Intelligence Converge in the BioHealth Industry,” sets the stage for three days of thought leadership, innovation, and collaboration across the region’s thriving life sciences community.
Forum Highlights (Sept. 23–24)
The Forum will feature two full days of keynotes and panels addressing some of the most pressing and exciting topics in the industry. Alex Philippidis of Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN) returns with the annual Top 10 U.S. Biopharma Clusters Update, while JLL’s Pete Briskman provides a snapshot of the region’s life sciences landscape. Keynote presentations from leaders like Whurley, a pioneer in quantum innovation, and Marco Pistoia of IonQ will spotlight the intersection of cutting-edge technology and biohealth. Panels throughout the two days will cover topics including navigating federal policy shifts, university-industry collaboration, the role of philanthropy, quantum technology applications in healthcare, and the transformative impact of AI across drug discovery, manufacturing, and patient care.
Crab Trap Competition (Sept. 24, 2:05 PM)
One of the most anticipated sessions, the 10th Annual Crab Trap Competition, returns on Wednesday afternoon. This year’s finalists represent a diverse mix of groundbreaking startups:
- Aloe Therapeutics (Germantown, MD) – Developing localized immunotherapy solutions for oncology.
- NioPath Inc. (Ashburn, VA) – Pioneering ultrafast imaging technology for surgical oncology.
- Chariot Biosciences (Baltimore, MD) – Advancing precision cancer therapies.
- GenAssist, Inc. (St. Louis, MO) – Innovating genetic diagnostics for rare diseases.
- Perfusion Medical (Reston, VA) – Developing advanced solutions for emergency medicine and trauma care.
- MYoroface AB (Hudiksvall, Sweden) – Offering IQoro®, a neuromuscular device for reflux disease, swallowing difficulties, and sleep apnea.
Finalists will compete for a prize package that includes $10,000 in cash, $25,000 in IT and cybersecurity services from InfoPathways, and $10,000 in CRO services from Noble Life Sciences and Accelevir.
Investment Conference (Sept. 25)
The 8th Annual Investment Conference closes the week with an exclusive focus on connecting high-potential companies with investors. Nearly 200 participants are already signed up, in addition to curated 1:1 meetings, this year will feature Quick-Pitch sessions in the auditorium, giving more startups the chance to present directly to the investor community. Register for the Investment Conference here: https://bit.ly/BHCRIC2025
Why Attend?
BHCR Week remains free to attend thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, ensuring accessibility for all members of the ecosystem. It is the premier opportunity for networking, partnership building, and showcasing the strength of the BioHealth Capital Region.
Register today and secure your spot: https://bit.ly/BHCRWeek2025
