Baltic Biotech Hub: Driving Collaboration and Innovation

In this newsletter, we are pleased to share the latest developments within the Baltic biotechnology sector. From the establishment of new innovation hubs to meaningful collaborations, the region continues to build its reputation as an important player in biotechnology.

Key updates include the launch of modern facilities and initiatives aimed at supporting talent, enhancing research opportunities, and attracting international investments. These efforts highlight the joint commitment of the Baltic countries to create a connected and sustainable biotech ecosystem.

Launched at the end of 2023 under the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program, the BIOCONNECT project is nearing completion. Its core mission has been to strengthen the Baltic biotechnology ecosystem, develop a strategic action plan, and foster regional collaboration.

Over the past year, BIOCONNECT has united stakeholders from academia, industry, investment, and policymaking across Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Finland. The project aims to increase the impact and competitiveness of the biotechnology sector within the European Union.

Baltic Biotech Collaboration: A Documentary on Regional Innovation

As part of the BIOCONNECT project, visits and filming sessions were organized at leading biotech companies in the key cities of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn, showcasing the innovative research and developments shaping the region’s biotechnology ecosystem. These visits not only captured the inspiring stories of innovation but also facilitated valuable discussions about the challenges and opportunities in the biotech sector.

Here’s an overview of the journey:

• Riga, Latvia: Featured Biomatter, known for advancements in biomaterials and sustainable solutions, and Alternative Plants, pioneers in plant cell cultivation for bioactive cosmetic molecules.
• Vilnius, Lithuania: Highlighted Caszyme, a leader in CRISPR-based genome editing technologies, and Atrandi Biosciences, driving innovation in microfluidics and “lab-on-a-chip” technologies.
• Tallinn, Estonia: Showcased ÄIO, creating sustainable oils from agricultural and wood by-products; PrintyMed, specializing in bioprinting for medical applications; and TFTAK, leading in food technology and applied biochemistry research.

Insights from these engagements were documented during filming sessions, creating a valuable resource to highlight the Baltic region’s potential to the broader biotech community.

We invite you to explore the inspiring work of Alternative Plants, a Riga-based company using bioreactors to cultivate bioactive molecules for cosmetics.

Watch the video and read the full interview with Anna Ramata-Stunda, CEO of Alternative Plants, here: Alternative Plants video.

The Action Plan to Drive Baltic Biotech Growth is nearing completion — stay tuned!

At the end of January, a comprehensive action plan will be unveiled, encompassing more than 40 initiatives aimed at ensuring the development of the biotechnology sector and enhancing the international visibility of the Baltic region. The key objectives of this action plan include:

• Establishing the Baltic Biotechnology Cluster and Strengthening Collaboration: The plan aims to create a platform that fosters international cooperation, resource sharing, and the development of a unified regulatory framework. This initiative seeks to enhance the Baltic biotechnology ecosystem and secure the sector’s competitiveness in Europe.
• Commercializing Scientific Research and Developing Talent: The plan prioritizes the commercialization of innovations by ensuring proper funding, mentorship, and infrastructure. It also emphasizes investment in regional education and training to prepare a highly skilled workforce for the biotechnology sector.
• Advancing Sustainable Solutions and Attracting Investments: The plan highlights biotechnology’s role in addressing climate change, public health, and resource efficiency challenges. It also focuses on strengthening the Baltic region’s presence in the global market and increasing its appeal to international investors.

This action plan is a significant step in advancing the growth of the Baltic biotechnology sector and establishing the region as a global leader in innovation and sustainability.

Baltic Biotech Hub: Innovation Unites 

The creation of the Baltic Biotech Hub is a central goal of the BIOCONNECT Project, aimed at uniting the region’s biotechnology resources and strengthening its position on the global stage. This hub is designed to connect local businesses, academia, and European ecosystems, enabling meaningful collaboration and innovation.

The development of the Baltic biotechnology sector focuses on three main areas:

• Talent Development:
  • Expand the local talent pool through university courses, industry programs, and school engagement.
  • Attract international talent and provide upskilling opportunities with online courses.
• Infrastructure Expansion:
  • Establish accessible lab facilities for early-stage companies.
  • Develop Baltic-specific scale-up centers and collaborate with European CDMO pilot facilities.
• Funding Accessibility:
• • Improve access to existing grants through funding databases and B2B project meetings.
  • Create new grants for biotech projects and educate investors to attract private equity.

By establishing the Baltic Biotech Hub, the BIOCONNECT Project is laying the foundation for a strong, interconnected biotechnology ecosystem that will elevate the region’s international competitiveness.

BIOCONNECT Project Nears Completion, but its Legacy Lives On

As the BIOCONNECT Project nears its conclusion, its impactful initiatives will continue to influence the future. Building on its achievements, the project’s next steps will focus on expanding its reach through engaging video content, implementing the comprehensive action plan, and establishing the Baltic Biotech Hub.

These efforts aim to ensure the continued development of the Baltic biotechnology ecosystem by enhancing collaboration, advancing innovation, and uniting stakeholders across the region. Sincere thanks to all contributors, partners, and supporters who have played an essential role in realizing the project’s objectives. Together, we are shaping a sustainable and thriving future for the biotechnology sector.