Welcome back from what I hope, was a restful summer holiday. The LSBC team has been busy planning for a full calendar of events to bring together our members and greater Life Sciences ecosystem. 

September will be focused on events to bring the community together, reconnect, network and celebrate the many accomplishments within our ecosystem. We begin with our virtual Fall LSBC Networking event on September 10^th at 4.00 – 5.00pm (registration information can be found here), followed by our virtual LSBC Annual Awards Program Event on September 17^th at 2.00 - 3.30pm and then to wrap up September with our AGM on September 24^th at 9.00am. Registration for our AGM by clicking on this link.

This year our virtual LSBC Annual Awards Event, unusual given current circumstances, I’m certain will be a celebration that recognizes those who are worthy of their award not only for this year, but for all the years they have invested in life sciences in B.C. You can buy tickets here or if you are an LSBC member, the event is free, just go online and register. I do hope you will be able to join us and cheer on our deserving award recipients! 

As a reminder here are this year’s 22^nd Annual Award Winners:

In November, we will be hosting virtually, our Annual Investor Summit on Monday, November 2 & Tuesday, November 3, 2020. This event is always well attended and supported by our investment community not only here in B.C., but nationally. We are fertile ground for innovation and building strategic partnerships has been a hallmark of this annual event and I expect no difference this year. Details for applying to the Investor Summit Application process can be found here.

In June, LifeSciences BC submitted to the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services our recommendations for the 2021 Budget and Government Services consultations. In reference to our submission the Government has recommended they: “Invest in health science research, including providing ongoing funding to Genome B.C., and support innovative, small and medium enterprises with business development to thrive in the commercial market.” And “In recognition of the increased use and need of digital health during the pandemic, expand and accelerate investments in digital health infrastructure, such as telehealth…”. These are strong and positive recommendations for our sector's growth and indicate government is listening to our concerns with investment in our ecosystem part of the overall growth strategy for B.C. You can read the entire report here.

I look forward seeing everyone this Fall season virtually or otherwise, and seeing our community interact and engage in these most unusual times. 

Focus is on discovery – Phase 1 candidates in oncology, immunology, neuroscience, ophthalmology, virology and women's health.

The Student Work Placement Program is now accepting applications for healthcare placements. Canada’s healthcare industry has a growing need to produce job-ready healthcare workers. There are 1,500 open spots available in 2020-21. WEBSITE

As an LSBC member, your first five job postings EARNS a free repost on BioTalent Canada's The Petri Dish After your first five reposts, you will also receive 25% off all job postings on The Petri Dish. Want more info? CONTACT: Sue Callaghan - talent@lifesciencesbc.ca

As a LifeSciences BC member, organizations and their employees can benefit from significant savings on a range of business and personal services, thanks to our Membership Benefits Program partnerships. You can locate the cost savings program suited to you needs here.