Strategic Autonomy Through Innovation: Biotech & Life Sciences
29 May 2026 | Kadans Science, Partner Plus Ultra Leiden
On 29 May 2026, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the Netherlands joined Swedish Chamber Member IvCB Public Affairs & Stakeholdermanagement, hollandbio, the Netherlands British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Leiden Bio Science Park, and a coalition of international Chambers of Commerce in hosting a high-level sector event on the role of Biotech & Life Sciences innovation in strengthening the strategic and economic resilience of the Netherlands.
Held at Kadans Science, Partner Plus Ultra Leiden, the event brought together Members of Parliament, senior policymakers, industry leaders, investors, academics, and healthcare innovation experts to discuss how Europe can strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
Throughout the morning, keynote speakers and panel discussions explored three central themes:
- The meaning and importance of strategic autonomy in Biotech & Life Sciences
- Accelerating innovation through collaboration between industry, government, academia, and international partners
- Investment, market access, and the conditions required for long-term prosperity and competitiveness
The discussions highlighted both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector, including the need for faster innovation pathways, stronger cross-border collaboration, increased investment, and policies that enable Europe to remain globally competitive while delivering benefits to patients and society.
A key takeaway from the event was the importance of translating Europe’s scientific excellence and innovative capacity into concrete action. Participants emphasized that strengthening the Biotech & Life Sciences ecosystem is not only an economic priority, but also a strategic imperative for the Netherlands and Europe.
We thank all keynote speakers, panelists, partners, sponsors, and attendees for contributing to an insightful and forward-looking discussion. Their expertise and engagement helped create a valuable platform for dialogue on the future of Biotech & Life Sciences innovation.
Kadans Science, Partner Plus Ultra Leiden, Emmy Noetherweg 2, 2333 BK Leiden
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