NEWS RELEASE: BioNova Launches BioInnovation Challenge (BIC) In Search of Top New Health and Life Sciences Entrepreneur in Atlantic Canada

By July 5, 2018News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BioNova Launches BioInnovation Challenge (BIC)
In Search of Top New Health and Life Sciences Entrepreneur in Atlantic Canada

July 3, 2018 – Halifax, NOVA SCOTIA – Early stage health and life science companies from Atlantic Canada have a chance to compete for $25,000 in seed funding and a $30,000 advisory services package to develop their business idea during BioPort 2018 on November 7-8, 2018 at the Halifax Convention Centre.

BIC is an Atlantic Canadian business competition that recognizes commercialization potential in health and life sciences.  Since 2011, it has encouraged innovation and the creation of new companies in the sector.

“Every year we are blown away by the potential of the companies in the competition,” said Scott Moffitt, Managing Director at BioNova. “Even a small investment in health innovation can spur business growth, job creation and better health outcomes for Canadians.”

The BioPort 2018 conference is set to be their biggest yet, with CEO of AnthroTronix, Dr. Corinna Lathan, scheduled to give a keynote address. New to this year’s program, the conference will also feature BioInnovation Challenge Junior (BIC Junior), for Nova Scotian high school and first year post-secondary students to create health and life science business ideas. The winner will receive a prize of $2,000.

Past winners of BIC include New Brunswick-based Pfera Inc., along with Spring Loaded Technology and Covina Biomedical from Nova Scotia.  This year’s finalists will be awarded advisory services with the first-place winner receiving $25,000 in seed funding, for a total prize package valued at $55,000. BIC is supported by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Dalhousie University Industry Liaison and Innovation, EmerGence BioIncubator and BioNB with in-kind services provided by Archway Insurance, Bereskin & Parr, Jennifer Cameron PR, PwC, Cox and Palmer, and Grant Thornton.

Applications for BIC must be submitted by August 10, 2018 to BioNova.  For full competition details and to apply, visit bioportatlantic.ca.

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About BioNova 
BioNova leads, accelerates, and advocates for Nova Scotia’s growing health and life sciences sector. Since 1993, BioNova has been accelerating the growth of its member companies. By hosting networking and educational events, and providing connections to potential funders and business resources, BioNova helps companies succeed.  While these companies commercialize life-changing research to improve healthcare, provide healthier food, and develop clean energy solutions, BioNova advocates on behalf of the sector. BioNova champions the sector’s cluster of world-class research facilities, incubator programs, and companies who, together, bring investment and jobs to Nova Scotia.

About BioPort
Since 2002, BioPort has provided a forum to inform and inspire the health and life sciences community to develop their ideas, commercialize their technologies and build links within the region, nationally and abroad.

For Further Information: 
Media Inquiries: 
Shana Cristoferi
Marketing Manager
(902)-830-9193
[email protected]

BIC Application Inquiries: 
Kerri Mannette
Director of Operations
(902)-421-5705
[email protected]