Hood College to Host Interactive Workshop on Bioscience and Biotech Entrepreneurship

In response to widespread displacement of federal scientists in the DMV region, Hood College’s Bioscience Research and Education Center (BREC) is proud to announce an immersive two-day workshop designed specifically for scientists interested in exploring entrepreneurship in the biosciences. Titled “From Science to Startup: The Entrepreneurial Journey,” the workshop will be held on Hood’s campus on June 26 and 27, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. each day.

Rooted in support for displaced federal scientists, this workshop is open to the broader scientific community and researchers who are interested in translating their skills into the business sector. With support and sponsorships from key partners, including Kite Pharma, Frederick County Economic Development and Federal Lab Consortium, Hood College is offering substantial discount rates for this innovative and timely workshop.

Led by Lorraine Marchand, a nationally recognized expert in life science commercialization and startup development, the workshop offers participants an opportunity to gain practical tools for translating scientific discoveries into real-world ventures. The workshop is designed for scientists and researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of business development in the biotech and bioscience industries.

Throughout the two days, participants will work through a comprehensive framework that includes:

• Opportunity identification

• Business planning

• Market assessment

• Funding strategies

• Storytelling and investor communication

• Commercialization pathways

The workshop will feature interactive lectures, real-world case studies, team-based exercises and one-on-one mentorship. Attendees will walk away with not only a broader understanding of the biotech innovation pipeline, but also a personalized roadmap for bringing their own scientific ideas to market.

Workshop Agenda:

Day 1: Thursday, June 26, 2025

9a.m.-5 p.m.: Foundations of Biotech Entrepreneurship

This full-day session will introduce the fundamentals of launching a life sciences startup. Topics include identifying unmet needs, evaluating the commercial potential of scientific discoveries and building a viable business model. The day will conclude with a Networking Social from 5 to 6 p.m., offering participants a chance to engage with instructors, peers and local bioscience professionals.

Day 2: Friday, June 27, 2025

9a.m.4 p.m.: Building, Funding, Storytelling and Commercialization of Biotech Ventures

Participants will explore strategies for building a biotech team, securing funding, communicating the value of their science and understanding regulatory pathways.

4-5:30 p.m.: Final Presentations and Wrap-Up

Teams will present their venture ideas and receive feedback from expert panelists and peers, reinforcing key learnings and building confidence in entrepreneurial thinking.

Registration Information

The workshop is open to scientists, graduate students and early-career researchers in the biosciences who are interested in entrepreneurship and commercialization. Space is limited to ensure a highly interactive and personalized experience. Register here.

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