About the Conference
Since 2003, BIO has collaborated with several state associations to form the Mid-America VentureForum. As defined by these organizations, the mission of Mid-America VentureForum is to bring together various bioscience start-ups, investors and other life science industry participants located throughout the Midwest.
During its first year, the 2003 Mid-America VentureForum attracted nearly 400 attendees, twice the anticipated outcome. The event received additional organizational support from the Midwest Healthcare Investment Network (MHIN) and the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA).
In 2004, St. Louis, Missouri hosted the Mid-America VentureForum. Determined to surpass the success of the 2003 event, BIO increased its venture capital community outreach to draw additional attention to the Midwest biotechnology and life sciences market. In the end, the 2004 event recognized a 25 percent overall increase in venture capital attendees, specifically drawing a larger number of East Coast and West Coast venture capitalists. Additionally, presenting companies collectively secured over $89 million in funding following the event.
The 2005 Mid-America VentureForum in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota continued to gain momentum, attracting more venture capitalists from outside the Midwest than ever before. The 2005 event resulted in nearly $120 millions in secured funding.
The 2006 Mid-America Venture Forum, held in Cleveland, Ohio, experience increased attendance by presenting companies as well as investors. Venture capital and investment bank participation in Cleveland generated nearly $104 million in investments for the event's presenting companies.
This year's event, co-hosted by the Wisconsin Biotechnology and Medical Device Association, is designed to attract attendees from across the industry spectrum. NA new feature at this year's BIO Mid-America Venture Forum is the Partnering System, offering attendees the opportunity to meet privately with investors and companies that fulfill specific pipeline or technology needs.