The 6th biotope basecamp is in full swing, and we’re thrilled to be halfway through this incredible three-week journey. Over the past 10 days, our cohort of talented founders has been immersed in an intense program focused on reflection and peer-learning, and on tapping into the expertise of industry captains, mentors, and inventors. The 2024 fall basecamp, like the editions before, is designed to equip biotech startups with the tools they need to navigate their unique challenges and unlock their potential.

In-person

The journey began at the VIB Agro Incubator in Nevele, where our participants took their first steps together, diving into team dynamics and creative thinking with Rom Farrand. Hallie Fox and Eva Somers from The Nest Family Office, alongside Ethan (Chi-Lin) Kuo at VIB, shared insights into what investors value most.

As the biotope basecamp progressed, we delved into practical knowledge and strategic frameworks critical for biotech startups: Ellen Crabbe, European patent lawyer, broke down IP management for early-stage biotech companies. Maarten Vandecruys shared real-world lessons from scaling Urban Crop Solutions, inspiring founders to think big, and Sophie Roelants encouraged participants to align their technologies with market needs.

Griet Vanpoucke and Peter Cauwels demystified the complexities of startup valuation and the nuts and bolts of biotope’s Convertible Loan Agreement. And there was ample time for 1-on-1 sessions with European Patent Lawyer Martina Bamberger and the biotope team, providing tailored advice to each startup.

Online

This week, we’ve transitioned to online sessions packed with actionable insights. Mathilde Do Chi from Forward Food Law delivered a masterclass on navigating regulatory requirements in FoodTech, and the biotope team gave a workshop on the TAM SAM SOM framework, helping founders to refine their market strategy with a clear understanding of target markets.

Up next are sessions on fundraising due diligence with Ruben Schoenmaekers and Maxim Van Eeckhout from Mace, and more on regulatory requirements in AgriTech, cosmetics, and detergents by Tineke De Wilde and Evi Ceulemans from Elements Advisory.

With one-on-one pitch coaching, we’re getting ready for pitching day with our Investment Committee on Dec 13th. Stay tuned for the final wrap-up of this transformative biotope basecamp journey—where we’ll share more stories of innovation, collaboration, and success.