German Alliance for Industrial Biotechnology Debuts in Montreal

The new “German Alliance for Industrial Biotechnology” is making its first appearance. An initiative recently launched by Germany Trade & Invest, the network includes both research institutions and producers, namely industrial biotechnology clusters and chemical parks, in addition to regional investment agencies. The alliance aims to bolster Germany’s biotechnology sector by creating new business opportunities across the entire value chain. Members of the alliance will be presenting together at the Sixth Annual World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioprocessing from July 19-22, 2009 in Montreal, Canada.

Germany’s biotechnology industry is the largest in Europe, posting annual revenues of over EUR 2 billion. There are nearly 600 biotechnology companies located in Germany. Within this industry, the industrial biotechnology sector has shown rapid growth in recent years. From 2005 to 2007, the industry doubled its revenue to EUR 50.4 million.

The “German Alliance for Industrial Biotechnology” brings together a number of partners. The network is made up of chemical parks, biotechnology start-ups, and scientific institutes from across Germany. Together, they initiate research and development projects that strengthen both academic and market competitiveness. A number of economic development agencies also contribute to the network, offering business services for investors and local expertise.

Rolf O. Gohdes, Director of Chemicals and Healthcare at Germany Trade & Invest, stated: “We believe the German Alliance for Industrial Biotechnology represents an exceptional chance for biotechnology companies to grow and prosper. Germany offers a number of unique business advantages. Our highly-skilled researchers and cutting-edge innovation combine to make Germany one of the most attractive locations for biotechnology in the world. Especially interesting are the chemical parks, which are setting the curve for others worldwide.”

Germany’s chemical parks provide a distinct business model for biotechnology companies. With the necessary infrastructure in place, this model creates a “plug and play” environment for companies, who can access all the necessary raw materials and supplies, find potential suppliers and research partners on site, and benefit from cost sharing.

Dr. Ralf Grote, Senior Manager of the German Cluster “Biocatalysis2021,” will be discussing the potential of the German clusters of industrial biotechnology at this year’s congress. In addition, Manfred Kircher, Chairman of the Board of Cluster Industrial Biotechnology 2021 e.V. (CLIB2021) will present international business solutions based on industrial biotechnology. Dr. Markus Wolperdinger, Director of Industrial Biotechnology at InfraLeuna GmbH, will highlight biorefinery as a case study, specifically the integration of bio-based processes and renewable resources into an established fossil-based refinery site.

Germany Trade & Invest will have representatives on hand at stand number 1101 in the exhibition hall of this year’s Sixth Annual World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioprocessing in Montreal, Canada.

Further information
German Alliance for Industrial Biotechnology