What is OKBioStart?

OKBioStart, is set to be a cornerstone program within the Oklahoma Biotech Innovation Cluster. They aim to drive the future of healthcare through robust support for life sciences innovators across a ten-county region centered in Oklahoma City.  

Established to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and commercial success, OKBioStart aims to transform scientific discoveries into tangible solutions that enhance lives and foster economic growth. 

Nicolete Davis, Program Director of OKBioStart, emphasizes the program's critical role in shaping global healthcare: "We believe that life science is critical to shaping the future of healthcare globally." This vision underpins their mission to accelerate biotech solutions from research labs to the marketplace. 

About OKBioStart 

OKBioStart is a grant-funded initiative that facilitates collaboration among innovators, founders, and the broader life science community. It focuses on accelerating the translation of innovative concepts into commercially viable technologies in biotech, MedTech, and Virtual Health. The program connects local innovators with a robust ecosystem of support, including academia, corporations, entrepreneurial resources, and government entities. 

OKBioStart plays a pivotal role in the Oklahoma Biotech Innovation cluster by nurturing early-stage technologies and fostering a supportive ecosystem for biotech startups. 

Programs Offered 

1. Community Program: 

• The Community Program fosters engagement within the local life sciences ecosystem through regular programming and events. These initiatives are open to all stakeholders, aiming to build a collaborative environment conducive to innovation. 

2. Concept Program: 

• According to Davis, "In the Concept Program, innovators work with us to explore promising intellectual property and develop commercialization plans." This twelve-week cohort-based program focuses on evaluating the commercial viability of innovative technologies. Selected participants receive guidance to refine their concepts and prepare for market entry.

3. Launch Program: 

• Davis highlights the Launch Program as pivotal in advancing concepts into viable startups: "Through our Launch Program, we provide non-dilutive funding and support to advance concepts into viable startups." This twelve-month initiative assists participants in achieving critical milestones necessary for sustainable growth and attracting further investment. 

Recent Achievements and Future Cohorts 

Professor Charles Rice and team at OKBioConnect Cohort Celebration

OKBioStart recently celebrated the success of its inaugural cohort at the VergeOKC, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Looking ahead, applications for the second Concept Program cohort are due on July 19, 2024, with subsequent applications for the Launch Program due on December 2, 2024. These milestones underscore OKBioStart's commitment to fostering innovation and propelling biotech startups in Central Oklahoma. 

With a clear focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and economic development, OKBioStart will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing biotech solutions in Oklahoma City and beyond. By providing critical resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities, OKBioStart empowers entrepreneurs to transform groundbreaking ideas into impactful solutions that benefit both patients and the economy. 

For more information on OKBioStart and upcoming application deadlines, visit okbiostart.com.