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Post-BIO Reflections: Why In-Person Still Matters

  • Writer: Sarah Sink
    Sarah Sink
  • Jul 14
  • 2 min read

BIO is always a whirlwind, and this year was no different!


Between the miles walked, the blisters from my high heels, the countless partnering meetings, and the chance encounters that turned into real conversations, I left feeling (happily) exhausted and more energized than ever about what’s ahead for our industry.


I spent the week meeting with biotechs at all stages, mostly around clinical-phase biologics and sterile manufacturing support, but as always, I kept my ears open across modalities. It’s one of the reasons I value this event so much. Whether you’re talking about ADCs, mRNA, or a niche small molecule program, BIO brings together the full ecosystem. Everyone’s here to connect, learn, and figure out how we move from science to product to patient together.



Themes That Kept Coming Up


Across conversations, a few themes echoed again and again:


  • Timelines are getting tighter. Sponsors are feeling the pressure to move fast, but not at the expense of reliability. There’s a strong interest in CDMOs that can flex and stay steady under shifting conditions.


  • Funding remains top-of-mind. Whether it's bridging from a seed round to a Series A or navigating strategic reprioritization from the top down, financial pressure is shaping decision-making early.


  • Geopolitical uncertainty is creeping into every strategy conversation. From proposed tariffs to shifting supply chain alliances, sponsors are thinking carefully about where their materials come from and how resilient their manufacturing networks really are.


  • Sponsors want more than a vendor. The best conversations weren’t just about tech transfer or capacity; they were about partnership. About navigating the unknowns together, not just transacting a service.


And through it all, the tone was upbeat. Optimistic. Focused on real collaboration and forward momentum. There’s work to be done, but the energy was contagious.



The Power of Being There


No matter how efficient Zoom has become, nothing compares to a week like this. It’s not just the scheduled 1:1s (though those are incredibly valuable). It’s the spontaneous hallway conversations, the introductions over coffee, and the long, lively dinners that start with small talk and end with shared strategy.


As a CDMO business development professional, I walk away reminded that this job isn’t just about technical capability or quoting timelines, it’s about trust. Being there in person, listening first, and finding common ground. That’s where the real relationships begin.



A Quick Thank You


To everyone I met this week, whether it was a first conversation or a long-overdue catch-up, thank you. These meetings and moments are the heart of what makes this industry move. If we didn’t get a chance to connect (or want to keep the conversation going), my messages are open.


Until next time, rest up, hydrate, and let’s keep building relationships together!

 
 
 

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