Recap of 2023 E&I Summit
March 18, 2023
The 2023 Wilson Sonsini Entrepreneur & Investor Life Sciences Summit (E&I Summit), presented by BioUtah and the University of Utah PIVOT Center (PIVOT Center), held March 16 at the Eccles Alumni House at the University of Utah, continued its tradition of bringing together Utah’s life sciences leaders, entrepreneurs and the investor community. This year’s event shattered prior attendance records, with just over 400 registrants.
Attendees heard from distinguished speakers, including keynote speaker Monica DiCenso, with J.P. Morgan, who addressed market conditions and a timely analysis of the Silicone Valley Bank failure. Panels featured an impressive line up of CEOs who have successfully taken life sciences companies from concept to commercialization, as well as national and local investors that highlighted opportunities for startups and helped innovators understand the state of financing in the industry.
Six companies participated in the popular Pitch Competition, each deserving recognition for their vision and novel technologies. The judges faced a difficult decision in choosing just two winners. nView Medical took first place and Birch OS was a close second, as runner up. All companies that competed deserve a round of applause.
“This year’s record attendance reflects an excitement about the innovation and growth potential of Utah’s life sciences industry,” said Kelvyn Cullimore, president and CEO of BioUtah. “In fact, new data released by the University of Utah’s Kem C. Gardner Policy Insitute confirmed that Utah has been home to the fastest growing life sciences community in the nation from 2012-2021.”
Companies developing novel medical technologies and diagnostics presented in a Company Showcase while our targeted tracks featured an array of industry experts, mentors and venture capitalists who covered topics such as raising funds, developing an investable media narrative and the establishment of the Utah Innovation Fund.
Entrepreneurs also had an opportunity to learn about non-dilutive funding options during one-on-one meetings with the Utah Innovation Center and G2G Consulting – a DC-based firm that tracks agency-wide federal grants.
We wrapped up the E&I Summit with an epic day at Deer Valley. Ski enthusiasts shredded the mountain while others joined us for a fabulous lunch slopeside – over 90 total guests! It was a great way to continue conversations started at the conference.
A special thank you to our partners, Keith Marmer and the PIVOT Center. We also recognize our title sponsor, Wilson Sonsini, and our many generous sponsors and exhibitors who made the Summit possible.
The E&I Summit is the go-to conference for Utah’s life sciences entrepreneurs and investors. If you missed this year’s Summit, please visit the photo gallery and follow us on social media. And watch for summaries of key presentations in future newlsetters.