Purdue-based life sciences company to host scientific networking conference for area research companies, investors, customers
Akina Inc. will sponsor the event with the aim to promote cooperation amongst Purdue Research Park business, researchers and startups. Although open to the public, the BPCR Conference strives to stimulate networking among local research companies, investors and customers.
“Many startups are working on various aspects within a specific problem or industry that may not know about each other,” said John Garner, general manager of Akina. “The conference is a chance for the startups to meet each other and others interested in their work.”
Those interested can register as an attendee, an exhibitor or a presenter. Food and beverages will be provided. Participants who plan to exhibit at the event will have access to a free 10-by-10-foot booth. To register, visit http://www.bpcrconference.com/.
“I look forward to learning what different small companies are all about and what they can offer,” said Marietta Smith, business office manager of Akina. “When we want to speak to a new business, we don’t know who to contact or where they are located. The conference will bring local business and universities together and boost opportunity.”
Garner will be one of several speakers to discuss important considerations of entrepreneurship during the conference. Other speakers include Anton Iliuk, chief technology officer of Tymora Analytical Operations; Kelvin Okamoto, chief executive officer of Gen3Bio; Cedric D ’Hue, patent lawyer of D ‘Hue Law; and Raouf Gharbo, technology lead, Peerbridge Health.
“I think it will be exciting to hear the speakers,” Garner said. “We have a variety of speakers coming and, in some cases, attendees will be talking to entrepreneurs or experts in the field.”
Akina provides research products and services that assist in controlled releases, medicinal-delivery and biomedical applications. This company has many multi-industry connections across the nation that could be valuable to BPCR Conference attendees.
“For a startup or a new company, the event will be a great opportunity for exposure without paying a great deal of money,” Garner said.
BPCR Conference Summary
BPCR Conference will be a free scientific networking symposium for greater Lafayette-based businesses, research companies and startups that want to network with potential customers, investors and partners. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. August 29 at the Kurz Purdue Technology Center’s Purdue Railyard located at 1281 Win Hentschel Blvd. in West Lafayette, Indiana.
About Akina Inc.
Akina Inc. is a life sciences company located in the Purdue Research Park of West Lafayette, Indiana. Founded in 2001 by Kinam Park, Showalter Distinguished professor in the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Akina provides a variety of research products and services with a focus on controlled release, medicinal-delivery, and biomedical applications. Akina consists of two divisions: PolySciTech, product development, and Akinalytics, laboratory services.