The Basque Country is establishing itself as a European hub for health innovation at the 10th BioSalud Conference
The Euroregion is strengthening its position in Europe by focusing on collaboration, innovation and the development of locally-sourced medical devices
The 10th BioSalud Meetings (#10RNAEN) have concluded, highlighting the Basque Country’s consolidation as a leading European hub for health innovation, thanks to its ability to connect industry, research and investment at an international level.
Over two days, the event brought together key players from the biohealth sector, companies, investors, public institutions and innovation stakeholders representing the entire New Aquitaine – the Basque Country-Navarre Euroregion – fostering new opportunities for collaboration and positioning the region as a strategic hub within the European health ecosystem, as well as visits to the companies Histocell and Biolan Microbiosensors at the Zamudio/Derio Campus of the Basque Country Technology Park.
The event concluded with the official opening by representatives of the Euroregion’s three clusters, who highlighted the importance of strengthening interregional collaboration, committing to the development of ‘zero-kilometre’ products and consolidating a strong European healthcare industry capable of researching, developing and producing high-value solutions.
On the second day, the main strategic challenges facing the sector were discussed, with a focus on moving towards greater healthcare autonomy in Europe. Institutions and experts agreed on the need to strengthen industrial capabilities, foster cooperation between regions and promote initiatives such as strategic public procurement to boost healthcare sovereignty. Activities such as a round-table discussion on European preference in healthcare and a ‘Reverse Pitch’ session to connect investors with innovative companies were also held.
The event concluded with the presentation of the RNAEN awards, which recognised PopCorn Therapeutics for its innovative therapies against paediatric tumours and Opportunity Health for a device for choking emergencies. Both projects reflect the high level of innovation within the bio-health ecosystem, at an event that stood out for its high turnout and for boosting the sector’s competitiveness and international profile.