Roanoke Region Represents at BIO International Convention

From June 3-6, representatives for the Roanoke Region attended BIO International in San Diego, California. BIO is the largest and most comprehensive event for biotechnology and is regarded as one of the most significant gatherings in the industry. Attracting companies in the tech and innovation sector is a key tactic of the Partnership’s Thrive 2027 strategic plan; a presence at BIO is a critical step in achieving that goal.

A group of five people (three white men and two white women) dressed in business attire and wearing lanyards with name tags pose for a photo in front of a big blue sign at the BIO International Convention in San Diego, CA.
Pictured from left to right: Matt Livingston (VTCRC), Ann Blair Miller (Roanoke Regional Partnership), Bradley Boettcher (City of Roanoke Economic Development), Erin Burcham (Verge/RBTC), and Marc Nelson (City of Roanoke Economic Development)

The BIO International Convention showcases over 500 exhibitors offering cutting-edge solutions in product development, contract research, contract manufacturing, and beyond. Representatives of the region engaged in discussions with biotech professionals to explore potential collaborations that could propel goals and initiatives forward within the life sciences sector. In partnership with Verge, Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, the City of Roanoke, and Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, the Partnership showcased the region’s assets as a burgeoning tech hub and built relationships with key players in the biotech sector.

“The Roanoke Region’s flourishing life sciences sector has set the table for more growth in the tech industry,” said Ann Blair Miller, director of business investment with the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “These strong partnerships with Verge, Virginia Tech, and the City of Roanoke help amplify our message of a smart, supportive, and sophisticated community ready to assist new businesses and residents.”

The state of Virginia's tradeshow display at BIO International Convention in San Diego, CA, June 3-6, 2024.
The Virginia booth display at BIO International Convention in San Diego, CA, June 3-6, 2024

Prior to the conference, Miller met with the regional partners and the marketing team to build a cohesive narrative about tech and innovation. They collaborated on messaging and developed materials regarding the region’s innovation corridor, the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, and the advantages of doing business and living in the Roanoke Region.

This is just one example of the Partnership implementing its Thrive 2027 strategy. The strategy calls for growing the Roanoke regional economy by amplifying business recruitment and expansion efforts, strengthening technology and innovation, raising the region’s image as a technology/innovation hub, and generating more high-paying jobs. This, in coordination with other marketing efforts and strategic partnerships, positions the region as a place where innovation is welcome and entrepreneurial pursuits are encouraged.

The Partnership looks forward to more opportunities to connect with experts and organizations as the region continues to gain traction as a promising location for tech and life sciences.