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MICHBIO: Stay informed. Stay Connected. – BioLink – 7.31.25

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Stay Informed. Stay Connected.

BioLink delivers the latest news, events, and insights from the world of life sciences in Michigan and across the United States. From groundbreaking research to policy updates and emerging trends, BioLink informs you about the industry’s innovations and growth.

Don’t Miss MichBio’s 2025 Signature Events!

Join us this fall for an exciting lineup of events showcasing Michigan’s bio-industry leadership. From groundbreaking medical device advancements to drug discovery breakthroughs and talent development, these must-attend gatherings offer unparalleled opportunities to connect, learn, and innovate.

Key Events at a Glance:

  • Michigan Medical Device Summit – Sept. 25, Grand Rapids
  • Drug Discovery & Development Symposium – Oct. 20, Ann Arbor
  • Michigan Bio-Talent Summit – Nov. 11, Lansing

Looking to spotlight your brand? Sponsorship, exhibition, and advertising options are available to help you reach Michigan’s top life science pros.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND PURCHASE

Share your news with us and we will share it in BioLink and on MichBio’s social media channels. Reach over 17,000 people in the Bio-Industry.

Introducing Entirety Biomedical – A New Era in Surgical Innovation

Magsorbeo is now Entirety Biomedical! With a fresh brand identity and a renewed vision, they are leading the way in next-generation absorbable metal implants. Their innovative Curasorb implants are designed to restore natural physiology, eliminate follow-up surgeries, and prioritize long-term patient wellbeing. This transformation reflects their commitment to advancing surgical solutions for a healthier, metal-free future!

Peptinovo Biopharma Recognized as a Top Presenter in the Life Sciences Venture Forum

MichBio member, Peptinovo Biopharma, was recently recognized as a Top Presenter in the Life Sciences Track at the Venture Forum. CEO Steve Tokarz showcased their groundbreaking PALM™ platform, designed to deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to cancer cells, improving patient outcomes while reducing harsh side effects. 

>> Check out their LinkedIn post for the full story! 

Element Recognized as an Official Bluetooth Test Facility

Element Materials Technology, a leader in wireless technology testing, has been officially designated as a Bluetooth Qualification Test Facility (BQTF) by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). As one of the few authorized BQTFs in the United States, this recognition highlights their expertise in helping manufacturers bring Bluetooth-enabled products to market with speed, confidence, and full compliance.

>> Read their LinkedIn post for more information.

Akadeum Life Sciences Among Top SE MI Startup Deals

Congratulations to Akadeum Life Sciences for being recognized by Crain’s Detroit Business as a Top 8 deal among Southeast Michigan startups in Q2! Their cutting-edge technology eliminates the need for cell separation instruments, dramatically streamlining cell therapy workflows in both time and cost.

The full article is available in Crain’s Detroit Business; subscription required.

Neogen Earns Validation for Petrifilm® Bacillus cereus Count Plate

Neogen has achieved AOAC® PTM℠, AOAC® OMA℠, and MicroVal validations for its innovative Neogen Petrifilm® Bacillus cereus Count Plate, launched last December. These accolades bring Petrifilm’s global recognitions and certifications to an impressive 105+, reflecting Neogen’s dedication to advancing reliable testing solutions that meet industry and regulatory standards.

MichBio Members Leading Michigan’s Innovation Momentum

Ann Arbor SPARK, University of Michigan, and Michigan State University, all valued MichBio members, were among the inaugural awardees of the Michigan Innovation Fund. This groundbreaking $60 million fund is dedicated to fueling Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering startup growth and driving innovation across the state.

Read Press Release

Congressional Advocates Seek Expedited Disbursement of Critical NIH Funding

U.S. Senator Katie Britt and 13 Senate colleagues are urging the release of NIH funds, emphasizing the risk of delaying critical research and undermining trust. Their advocacy highlights the impact of funding suspensions, which have already led to significant NIH grant terminations affecting billions in research.

Discover the broader implications and the senators’ call for action.

Read More

SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Update: Legislative Efforts Intensify as Program Deadline Approaches

With the September 30 deadline fast approaching, lawmakers are working to reauthorize the SBIR/STTR programs, vital lifelines for funding high-tech small businesses. Key proposals focus on strengthening oversight, expanding access for underserved communities, and addressing commercialization challenges. These programs contribute over $4 billion annually to innovation, making their reauthorization crucial.

Stay updated on the latest developments and what they mean for the industry.

Read More

Controversial New Patent Fee Model Emerges

A new value-based patent fee model under consideration could reshape innovation incentives by tying costs to a patent’s potential value. While the initiative aims to boost federal revenue, critics warn of risks to startups and small inventors, including higher costs and legal complexities. The potential impact on innovation and entrepreneurial ventures has sparked significant debate.

Read More

>> FDA Appoints Biotech Executive as Top Drug Regulator Under RFK Jr.

>> NATO Innovation Fund Invests in First Biotech: What’s to come?

>> Medtronic’s Flagship Insulin Pump Nets European Approvals for Type 2 Diabetes, Pregnancy and Young Children

>> Novartis Drops Up to $1B+ for Drug Discovery Deal with Matchpoint

Draper America Tour: Coming to Detroit—Could Your Big Idea Win $1M?

This is your chance to pitch to legendary investor Tim Draper for a shot at $1 MILLION in funding! Meet The Drapers is coming to Detroit on Sept. 26 to film the nation’s brightest startups and boldest ideas.

With a global audience of 30+ million viewers, this isn’t just about funding—it’s about making your mark on the world stage.

 

Apply by Aug. 31 at www.meetthedrapers.com/usa

ARPA-H FRONT Program Tackles Brain Function Restoration

ARPA-H has launched the groundbreaking FRONT program (Functional Repair of Neocortical Tissue), leveraging neurodevelopmental principles and stem cell technology to regenerate brain tissue and restore motor control, vision, speech, and more. This initiative aims to address irreversible damage caused by strokes, injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases. 

  • Solution Summary Due: August 18, 2025  
  • Full Proposal Due: September 25, 2025  

Learn more and review the solicitation for details and requirements. 

How MichBio Members and Industry Leaders Are Shaping Policy and Driving Innovation

Join Laura Bonnell, founder of The Bonnell Foundation and MichBio member, as she leads the powerful discussion Advocacy in Action: From the Front Lines. In this episode, Laura is joined by MichBio President and CEO Stephen Rapundalo, along with a panel of passionate advocates and industry leaders, to explore how storytelling, persistence, and collaboration can shape policy and drive innovation.

Featuring insights from experts MichBio members like Dr. Andy Kocab (ONL Therapeutics), Harold Chase (NSF), Thomas T. Moga (Dykema), and Dr. Brandon McNaughton (Akadeum Life Sciences), this conversation dives into building relationships with lawmakers, the emotional rewards of advocacy, and actionable advice for making an impact.

Don’t miss this inspiring discussion—watch the full episode on YouTube or tune in to the podcast today!

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