Applications open for start-up pitch slots at BIO on the BAYOU

SOM Communications somcommunications@tulane.edu
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As the global biotech community convenes this week at BIO in Boston, the Gulf South is preparing to spotlight its own groundbreaking research and entrepreneurial talent at BIO on the BAYOU 2025.

BIO on the BAYOU is the premier event showcasing academic science and biotechnology from across the Gulf South region — and applications are now open for start-up pitch slots at this year’s conference, taking place October 29–30 in New Orleans.

The event brings together senior executives and key decision-makers from corporate, investor, foundation, government, and academic sectors, all working to advance life-changing research from the bench to the bedside.

To continue fueling the growth of life sciences in the region, BIO on the BAYOU invites start-ups — especially those spun out of or licensing technologies from academic institutions — to apply for the chance to present their work. Selected start-ups will each have seven minutes to pitch, followed by a three-minute audience Q&A. There is no fee to apply or present.

“Coming off the excitement of BIO in Boston, this is the perfect moment to keep the momentum going and shine a light on the innovation happening right here in the Gulf South,” said Alexis Ducote, PhD, Business Development Associate at Tulane University School of Medicine. “BIO on the BAYOU helps connect promising start-ups with the partners and resources they need to grow and thrive.”

Preference will be given to university-affiliated start-ups, but companies without an academic connection are welcome to apply and will be considered for remaining slots. A panel of industry experts will review applications and select those with the strongest potential for partnership and impact.

Eligibility criteria for start-ups:

  • Priority for companies with an option/license agreement or collaboration with a university/academic institution
  • Founded within the past five years
  • Fewer than 10 employees
  • Aggregate financing of $5 million USD or less
  • Developing new therapeutic products, technology platforms, or digital medicine technologies

Applications are due by Monday, July 21, at 11:59 p.m. CT. Selected companies will be notified by August 15 with the next steps.

“BIO on the BAYOU has grown into a key event for start-ups to gain exposure, receive feedback, and build relationships that can take their ideas further,” said Elaine Hamm, PhD, CEO of Ascend Bioventures and Executive-in-Residence at Tulane University School of Medicine.

For more information and to register for the conference, visit BIOontheBAYOU.com.