Minister Bilous Leads Biotech Mission to Attract Investment

Representatives from more than 10 Alberta biotech and health organizations will join Deron Bilous, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, as he promotes Alberta in San Francisco from June 5 to 7.

The BIO International Convention (BIO) 2016 is the largest biotechnology conference in the world and provides an opportunity to strengthen Alberta’s growing health and biopharmaceutical industries.

“Employing more than 4,500 people, Alberta’s health research and innovation sector is helping diversify our economy at the same time as fast-tracking products and technology that improve the wellness of Albertans and people around the world. Over the past 10 years, Alberta delegations at BIO have attracted more than $40 million of health research investments from outside the province. The conference continues to be an incredible opportunity to showcase the accomplishments of our researchers as Alberta becomes a global leader in this field.”

Alberta is home to more than 200 life sciences companies, with annual revenues for this growing sector estimated at $1.5 billion. The province has many advantages to build on, including award-winning researchers, outstanding infrastructure and innovative companies that are open for collaboration. All these factors work together to build Alberta’s significant capacities in the health research and innovation system, with expertise in infectious diseases, oncology, cardiology, metabolic diseases, neurology, organ transplant and other technologies.

The Government of Alberta delegation includes the minister, one ministerial staff and one deputy minister. The cost of the trip, including travel, accommodations and meals, is estimated at $18,482.

Itinerary for Minister Bilous*

*Itinerary is subject to change.