Maryland’s life sciences ecosystem is at a defining moment. Scientific excellence, entrepreneurial momentum, and public investment are converging—but the state’s next phase of growth will depend on how effectively workforce, incubation, and infrastructure efforts are aligned to support long-term impact.
This event convenes leaders from across industry, academia, incubation, and economic development to examine how Equitech Growth Fund–supported initiatives are helping build the systems Maryland needs to scale innovation, expand opportunity, and sustain bio growth statewide.
The program will spotlight Equitech-backed workforce and infrastructure efforts that are translating investment into real capacity—reducing friction for employers, strengthening talent pathways, and reinforcing the foundation of Maryland’s bio economy.
Together, the conversation focuses on a central question: How does Maryland turn targeted investment and collaboration into durable, inclusive growth for its life sciences ecosystem?
Designed for employers, researchers, incubator operators, investors, policymakers, and ecosystem partners, this event offers a shared space to align around what comes next—and how Maryland defines its future as a national bio leader.
Agenda
4:30pm Check-In + Networking
5:00pm Welcome – TEDCO EGF Team
5:05pm Equitech Growth Fund Lightning Talks
Rise Therapeutics, Gary Fanger, CEO
Xcellon Biologics, Yuk Chu, CEO
BioBuzz, Chris Frew, CEO
5:35pm Igniting Incubation in Maryland Panel
Hear from 4 of Maryland’s top incubators on how they are igniting incubation. Speakers include:
Stephen Dalal, D.V.M., M.P.H., COL, U.S. Army, (Ret.), Vice President, HJF Innovation Ecosystem Initiative
Matt Tremblay, PhD, CEO, Blackbird Laboratories
Mark VanderZyl, Director, Connect Labs Baltimore
Ezekiel Kelley, VP Engagement & Growth, FITCI
Deborah Hemingway, PhD, Managing Partner, Ecphora Capital (Moderator)
6:20pm Networking
7:30pm Event closing
