Wisconsin: A Rising Star in the Biotech Industry

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Wisconsin is officially on the map as a U.S. Regional Tech Hub, and the state is poised for a biohealth revolution. With projections of 30,000 new jobs and $9 billion in economic development, the spotlight is on Wisconsin as it fosters the talent needed to nurture the next generation of biotech professionals. 

The Tech Hub designation gave Wisconsin’s biohealth industry a major boost, unlocking $49 million in federal funding and recognizing the state’s strengths in personalized medicine, imaging, genomics and data analytics. However, this recognition is not just about dollars and cents; it’s about creating an ecosystem where groundbreaking research translates into life-saving treatments and economic prosperity. 

Education Meets Opportunity 

Central to Wisconsin’s success is a commitment to cultivating a skilled biotech workforce. As for the biotech industry in Madison and the surrounding communities, Forward BIOLABS and BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute are two prime examples of how the state is bridging the gap between education and industry needs. 

Forward BIOLABS is a coworking lab space providing startups with the infrastructure and resources to launch and grow. By offering shared lab equipment, mentorship and networking opportunities, Forward BIOLABS acts as an incubator for innovation, attracting and supporting budding biotech entrepreneurs. 

Forward BIOLABS is a launchpad for early-stage biohealth startups like AyrFlo Innovation Labs and Immuto Scientific. 

Immuto Scientific focuses on developing targeted biotherapeutics for difficult-to-cure diseases such as cancer. The company has created technologies that accelerate the drug discovery process and enable the development of new lifesaving therapeutics. Forward BIOLABS helped it by providing the necessary lab space and specialized scientific equipment for this complex work. 

“The support Forward BIOLABS provided was instrumental in our early success,” says Faraz Choudhury, CEO of Immuto Scientific. “We credit Forward BIOLABS as an instrumental factor in securing our early funding. That funding – combined with the extensive lab resources Forward BIOLABS provides – enabled us to immediately commence with experiments, further developing our technology. With the progress made, we hit an additional pivotal achievement while at Forward BIOLABS in acquiring our first customers.” 

AyrFlo is a medical device company that created a groundbreaking way to monitor breathing after surgery when the patient is weak to prevent breathing complications. The company uses ultrasound and machine learning to detect problems early on, which could save lives. Forward BIOLABS helped the company connect with industry experts, potential partners and a network of like-minded startup companies that accelerated the company’s launch. 

AyrFlo CEO Guelay Bilen-Rosas describes Forward BIOLABS as “home” for companies early in their startup journey. 

“It offers an incredible community of fellow founders and startups, a dedicated team ready to answer questions and serve as a valuable sounding board, and numerous opportunities to connect with other entrepreneurs in similar industries facing shared challenges,” Bilen- Rosas says. “Beyond providing a physical space to conduct my work, Forward BIOLABS fosters a supportive environment that also includes guidance and connections to fundraising resources, helping early-stage companies accelerate growth and navigate the complexities of building a successful business.” 

Hands-On Training 

BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute, in partnership with biotech giant Promega, offers hands-on training programs to guide the next generation of biotech workers. Students gain practical experience in cutting-edge technologies, preparing them for biomanufacturing, quality control and research careers. 

The Youth Apprenticeship Program allows high school students in Dane County to get biotech experience while still in school. This program, run by the BTC Institute, places students in real labs at companies like Promega or at UW-Madison. They work alongside scientists, learn essential techniques and get paid for their work. This gives students a head start in their biotech careers. 

For adults, BTC Institute offers scientific courses and workshops that cater to individuals with varying levels of scientific background, from those seeking introductory knowledge to pros looking to enhance their skills. 

These are just examples of how BTC Institute also helps bridge the gap between education and industry. By providing practical training and fostering connections with employers, they’re creating a pipeline of skilled workers to support the industry’s growth.