Company News
PEI BioAlliance Appoints Lauren Ledwell as New CEO, Building on 20 Years of Sector Growth
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lauren Ledwell new CEO, PEI BioAlliance
Charlottetown, PEI – August 6th, 2025 The Prince Edward Island BioAlliance is pleased to announce the appointment of Lauren Ledwell as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective September 2025.
A visionary business leader, Ms. Ledwell brings extensive experience in business transformation, venture capital, and system innovation to the sector. She will succeed founding CEO Rory Francis who announced that he would retire in 2025.
“Lauren Ledwell’s leadership in the innovation economy as a tech entrepreneur, investor, and mentor is a significant asset for the continued growth of our sector,” shared Charmaine Noonan, Chair, Board of Directors who led the executive search. “Ms. Ledwell’s ability to build inclusive teams and experience with businesses spanning all stages of development and sizes aligns with the PEI BioAlliance’s core purpose to build a thriving PEI bioeconomy collaborating with industry, academia and government to promote innovation and generate prosperity in our province.”
The Board of Directors appointed Ms. Ledwell after conducting a six-month search to find the next leader of this industry-led organization, respected nationally for its achievements in cluster model driven sector growth. The national search came full circle, as Ms. Ledwell had recently returned to her home province with her family.
“I’m thrilled to join the PEI BioAlliance and to build on the tremendous momentum of this respected bioscience cluster organization,” shared Lauren Ledwell, incoming CEO, PEI BioAlliance. “I’m looking forward to working alongside the talented BioAlliance team, regional and national cluster organizations, and with all partners that have shaped PEI’s thriving bioscience sector to date. Together, we’ll continue advancing innovation, accelerating growth, and championing leadership in the bioeconomy.”
Most recently Ms. Ledwell was with Sandpiper Ventures, spearheading Seed and Series A investments in inclusive, high-growth Canadian tech companies. She previously held senior roles at Manulife, RBC, and Maple Leaf Foods, and served as CEO of discoverygarden.
A strong advocate for Canada’s innovation economy, she co-founded the Atlantic chapter of Women’s Equity Lab, serves as founding Chair of the Board for the PEI IT Alliance, and is a mentor with Creative Destruction Lab and Emergence. She was also recently appointed a Board Director of Venture for Canada. Ledwell holds an MBA from the Rotman School of Management and has completed executive education at Ivey Business School and BI Norwegian Business School.
The PEI BioAlliance celebrates its’ 20th Anniversary this year. Rory Francis as a founder has been a catalyst in PEI’s bioscience industry as we know it today, with a cluster of 50 plus companies that combined generate $612 million in annual revenue and $460 million in exports. Under Mr. Francis’ leadership, the BioAlliance helped to attract new investment, scale innovative companies, and catalyze collaboration across industry, academic, and public sector partners.
“Rory’s vision and tenacity have transformed the bioscience landscape in Prince Edward Island and across the region,” said Charmaine Noonan, Chair of the Board of Directors. “He built not just an organization, but a model for what regional innovation and collaboration can achieve. His legacy of economic leadership and deep community impact will carry on—and we are incredibly grateful for his service.”
An event to celebrate Mr. Francis will be announced at a later date.
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Media Contact:
Bobbi Jo Walker, Director of Communications & Marketing
PEI BioAlliance
403-952-8304 / bobbijo@peibiolliance.com
PEI’s Pegasus Biotech to Collaborate on Developing Cutting-Edge Influenza Vaccine
Congratulations to Charlottetown-based Pegasus Biotech Inc. as they embark on an important scientific collaboration with a consortium developing a cutting-edge vaccine for broader protection against influenza.
Over the two years, this new collaboration will employ next generation nucleic acid vaccine and delivery technologies, developed by 4basebio and Pegasus Biotech, to combine seasonal influenza vaccines with ConserV Bioscience’s antigens clinically proven to induce broadly protective immune responses.
This work is supported by the National Research Council Canada / Conseil national de recherches Canada in collaboration with the UK government 🇨🇦 🇬🇧
SEKISUI Diagnostics and the Government of PEI Announce $16 million Investment to Expand Reagent Contract Manufacturing Capabilities at Charlottetown Facilities
The Province of Prince Edward Island and SEKISUI Diagnostics announce a Charlottetown expansion.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JUNE 16, 2025 – BOSTON, Massachusetts
SEKISUI Diagnostics and the Government of Prince Edward Island today announced a $16 million (CAD) capital investment in the company’s Charlottetown facilities as part of an ambitious business expansion into contract manufacturing of reagents for global clients.
Premier Lantz announced that the province is contributing $3.9 million in capital investment for the initial facility build-out, repayable on a lease-back arrangement and a labour rebate in support of the Charlottetown expansion.
Sekisui Diagnostics anticipates that the new 22,000 square-foot facility in Charlottetown will be completed by 2026 and will go directly into production for a European customer. Output capacity will triple from 4,500L to 20,000L batch sizes. The expansion will add 25 highly skilled positions to the company’s local workforce of 200 employees.
The Hon. Rob Lantz, Premier of Prince Edward Island and Bob Schruender, President and CEO, SEKISUI Diagnostics shared the podium at the Canada Pavilion during the BIO International 2025 Conference and Exhibition to make the announcement.
“If your medical professional ordered a diagnostic test for you, chances are likely a SEKISUI Diagnostics product made that possible. One of Canada’s best kept secrets is that Prince Edward Island is a leader in our national bioscience ecosystem and has been improving the lives of patients both at home and around the globe for over 50 years,” said Premier Rob Lantz. “Investments, such as what we announced today, are a testament to our province’s enduring commitment to advancing the success of both health innovation and prosperity at home through our highly innovative cluster of bio companies.”
“We are proud that this investment will continue to strengthen our capabilities as we ramp up to break into the market of contract manufacturing on a much larger scale,” shared Bob Schruender, President and CEO SEKISUI Diagnostics. “We thank the Government of Prince Edward Island for their support of this expansion and ongoing belief in both our company and also in the growth of the bioscience sector over many years.”
“We applaud the strength of the private, public partnership that was reflected by today’s announcement,” stated Rory Francis, CEO, PEI BioAlliance. “As a sector we have worked closely with government, industry, and academic partners over the last 20 years to grow bio-based small and medium-sized enterprises, foster cutting-edge biotechnology, and ultimately enrich the lives of patients and our province.”
Quick Facts:
- SEKISUI Diagnostic’s product lines include clinical chemistry reagents, i.e. “tests for Cardiac, Liver and general health” point-of-care tests, blood collection tube materials as well as enzymes and specialty biochemicals.
- As an anchor Prince Edward Island biosciences company Sekisui Diagnostics has had a long-term partnership with the provincial government completing 7 building expansions and over $40 million in capital investment within the last 10 years.
- This project creates 25 new and highly skilled employment opportunities to the company’s PEI site, recruiting from the local workforce, along with roles specialized for University and College graduates.
- Construction of the 22,000 square foot facility is expected to be completed in 2026.
- The bioscience sector in Prince Edward Island grosses over $600 million in revenue annually.
About Sekisui Diagnostics
With over 40 years of experience, SEKISUI Diagnostics’ mission is to enhance life with science and improve the health of all people by supplying innovative medical diagnostics globally to physicians, hospitals, laboratories and alternate testing locations as well as partnerships with the world’s leading healthcare companies supporting accurate and timely patient diagnosis across the globe.
Media Contacts
Lisa Turner
SEKISUI Diagnostics
Director, Communications & Commercial Marketing
lisa.turner@sekisui-dx.com
Bobbi Jo Walker
PEI BioAlliance
Director, Communications and Marketing
bobbijo@peibioalliance.com
Boosting Atlantic Canada’s Bioscience Business Incubator
March 13, 2025 · Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Atlantic Canada’s bioscience sector continues to grow at an impressive pace, creating jobs and driving innovation across the region. To support this momentum, the Government of Canada is investing in the Emergence Bioscience Business Incubator, a key initiative that provides critical commercialization and mentorship services to bioscience companies across the region.
Supporting the Future of Bioscience in Atlantic Canada
Today, Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, announced a $2,569,000 investment to support the delivery of Emergence 4.0 by the Prince Edward Island BioAlliance. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
This investment will enhance the capacity of Emergence to support the formation and growth of innovative bioscience companies that are leading the way in Atlantic Canada. Emergence will continue to develop its mentorship network, increasing access to investment opportunities, and supporting bioscience firms in navigating commercialization and regulatory pathways.
Read the full release here.
NPC invests in seven Canadian start-ups, surpassing $10M in Canada’s bioeconomy
Natural Products Canada (NPC) has announced investment of $1.7 million into seven early-stage companies bringing its total to $10.6M in investments in 88 Canadian opportunities. The seven companies are recipients of NPC’s Commercialization Programs and represent highly innovative bio-based and natural products.
NPC’s most recent investment will enable a total of $4.6 million in pivotal activities to help the seven companies address key challenges in their go-to-market journey. The recipients include start-ups from across the country developing sustainable, bio-based products ranging from allergen-free pet food to soil and water remediation, and are comprised of: ALT-PRO Advantage; BioSun Products; Black & Blue Foods; Chinova Bioworks; Henri Nutrition; Magna Engineering; and Tersa Earth Innovations.
Read more at the full release.
PEI bioscience cluster accelerates as a powerhouse economic engine with impressive 2023 performance
PEI BioAlliance releases new survey data showing private sector revenue exceeds $612 million
Charlottetown, PE – The Prince Edward Island Bioscience Cluster continues to make its mark as a top driver of the province’s growing economy. Today, the PEI BioAlliance released the results of a survey of over 50 bioscience sector companies based on 2023 business performance. Private sector company revenues reached more than $612 million, with a GDP impact that makes bioscience the second-largest industry in Prince Edward Island, growing 84% since 2018.
Exports of manufactured products outside of Canada, including pharmaceutical ingredients, diagnostics, vaccines, and natural health products for human, animal, and fish health were $460 million. Investment attraction topped $38 million, and capital expenditures were $111 million, highlighting the significant growth and expansion of PEI businesses. Notably, spending on salaries rose to $115 million, with an average annual salary of $79,300, making the Cluster the highest-paying private sector employer in the province. The bioscience sector currently employs 2,200 people.
The sector is a major contributor to provincial, federal, and local governments’ tax revenue, with an annual contribution of $106 million in 2023, almost doubling over the previous five years.
PEI’s bioscience community is recognized nationally and internationally for its collaborative economic cluster model that drives innovation and sector growth. Through the aligned efforts of business, academia, research, and government partners, the PEI Bioscience Cluster has surpassed 2025 growth targets and is well on its way to becoming a billion-dollar industry by 2030.
“In these times of economic uncertainty, it is rewarding to see our sector continue to grow as a key pillar of PEI’s economy,” said Charmaine Noonan, Board Chair, PEI BioAlliance and Senior Director, Merck Animal Health PEI. “We firmly believe that the world will continue to need the specialized health products and services that our highly sophisticated companies are producing.”
PEI’s bioscience sector recently captured international headlines with two landmark transactions.
In September 2024, Agilent Technologies completed its acquisition of biopharmaceutical manufacturer BIOVECTRA for $925 million (USD). In February 2024, Merck Animal Health acquired Elanco Animal Health’s aqua business for $1.3 billion (USD) in cash with PEI fish vaccine manufacturing assets a key part of the transaction. These landmark deals reflect the global recognition and value of companies that have grown from early beginnings in PEI.
The rapid growth of the Cluster has put pressure on two key enablers of continued success: the availability of skilled personnel and the availability of specialized R&D and manufacturing facilities.
To address these challenges, the Governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island recently broke ground on the $50 million BioAccelerator, a unique in Canada 62,000 sq ft multi-function facility that will provide lab and manufacturing facilities and services to research organizations, entrepreneurs, and small and medium-sized companies that are the economic drivers of future growth.
Located in the BioCommons Research Park in Charlottetown, the BioAccelerator will build upon recent public and private sector investments such as BIOVECTRA’s first-in-Canada mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility, the Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL) training facility, and the Bioscience Manufacturing Incubator.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see how investments from multiple levels of government into a strategic sector like the biosciences have helped it successfully accelerate to being an Island economic force. As we continue to support a healthy, sustainable, and diverse economy, the Province is pleased to see Island bioscience businesses and their goods and services reach global markets,” added Minister of Economic Development, Innovation and Trade Cory Deagle.
Rory Francis, CEO of the PEI BioAlliance, said that these advancements are investments in the province’s future. “The sector’s economic success means positive benefits for Islanders through high-paying jobs and increased government revenues,” said Francis. “These revenues enable government investments in housing, health care, education, roads, climate change mitigation, and many other programs and services important to Islanders. We’re pleased to continue to contribute to the future prosperity of PEI.”
The full report is available to read here.
Alpha Cognition Secures Additional U.S. Patent for ZUNVEYL in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Alzheimer’s disease
Alpha Cognition Inc. (NASDAQ: ACOG) (“Alpha Cognition” (ACI), or the “Company”), a biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for debilitating neurodegenerative disorders, today announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has granted a new patent titled “Coated Tablets for pH-Dependent Release of Benzgalantamine.”
“This patent approval underscores the innovative nature of ZUNVEYL and enhances our ability to deliver a differentiated treatment option for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease”
This newly issued patent strengthens Alpha Cognition’s intellectual property portfolio by covering the composition of tablet formulations of benzgalantamine, further reinforcing the Company’s existing patent protections. With this approval, ZUNVEYL has patent protection in the United States through 2044, supporting the Company’s long-term growth strategy as it prepares for commercialization.
“This patent approval underscores the innovative nature of ZUNVEYL and enhances our ability to deliver a differentiated treatment option for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease,” said Michael McFadden, CEO of Alpha Cognition. “The timing of this milestone is significant, as it coincides with our planned U.S. launch of ZUNVEYL this quarter. With extended patent protection, we are well-positioned to maximize the potential of ZUNVEYL and continue advancing solutions for those affected by Alzheimer’s.”
ZUNVEYL represents a novel approach to symptomatic Alzheimer’s treatment, designed to improve patient outcomes through optimized drug delivery. ZUNVEYL will be available by prescription in pharmacies nationwide in Q1 2025.
Holland College Applied Research is hosting an Open House
The Holland College Applied Research Department is hosting an Open House event featuring a tour of the Bioscience Technology lab space, showcasing state-of-the-art equipment, personnel expertise, and funding opportunities.
TopGum acquires Island Abbey Nutritionals in a landmark deal
TopGum Industries, Ltd. (TASE: TPGM), a global leader in the development and manufacturing of gummy supplements, announces it has acquired Island Abbey Nutritionals™, a leading CDMO specializing in supplement gummies and lozenges, located in Prince Edward Island, Canada. This strategic acquisition significantly expands TopGum’s manufacturing and technological capabilities, strengthening its position as a leading global provider of innovative gummy supplements.
Read more about this landmark deal here.
World Economic Forum names SENTRY as Top 10 Innovator for its role in tackling water pollution & ensuring water quality
At this week’s World Economic Forum (WEF) annual gathering in Davos, Switzerland, real-time wastewater quality monitoring pioneer, SENTRY Water Monitoring and Control (SENTRYTM), was named a Top 10 Innovator out of almost 300 global water startup applicants. The award is part of the “Tackling Water Pollution Challenge” offered by the WEF’s Innovation Ecosystem, Uplink, and their partner, HCL Group, which aims to find innovative solutions to conserve and restore freshwater ecosystems.
Read the full news release here.
Onda to Advance Research on Sustainable Feed Alternatives for Aquaculture
Onda, the largest contract research organization in Canada specializing in aquaculture research, is working with the Canola Council of Canada (CCC) on a new Canola AgriScience Cluster research project examining the use of canola-based feed meal for sustainable aquaculture production, to expand the market for Canadian canola and provide a sustainable alternative for aquafeed.
The Canola AgriScience Cluster is a five-year research program funded under Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership with contributions from the CCC, Alberta Canola, SaskOilseeds, Manitoba Canola Growers and the Ontario Canola Growers Association. Under this funding partnership, a total of 17 projects will be carried out in collaboration with public research institutions across Canada.
Aquaculture has become an essential source of global protein, but concerns about the environmental impact of fish feed ingredients have prompted the industry to seek more sustainable alternatives.
Onda CEO, Myrna Gillis stated, “As global demand for seafood continues to rise, the need for sustainable practices in aquaculture has become more pressing than ever. By advancing research into alternative feed sources, Onda and the canola sector are helping the industry meet these challenges head-on while working to unlock new markets for Canadian canola.”
The 18-month research project will evaluate the use of Canadian canola meal in fish feed and its impact on growth, disease resistance and the environment. Objectives of this study are to update nutrient digestibility values and provide new data on its use in aquaculture, as well as a life cycle analysis on canola meal in salmon feed. The research will involve Onda’s Nutrition, Health, FeedTech and LabTech business units and will culminate in shared research and dissemination of the findings.
“This research will enhance our understanding of canola meal’s nutritional value in aquaculture, helping to build market opportunities and further canola’s value-added contributions to our food and feed systems,” says Chris Manchur, CCC agronomy specialist and research lead.
Canola meal is a promising plant protein source for fish feed due to its sustainability, market availability, cost-effectiveness and balanced amino acid profile. With the drive towards ingredients with lower environmental impact, there is increasing attention and interest in canola meal in the aquaculture industry. Additionally, the long salmon production cycle of 1.5 to 3 years provides a significant opportunity for the utilization of canola meal in cost-effective feed formulations.
Onda is no stranger to alternative protein sources, having worked on numerous studies evaluating feed formulations that include plant-based ingredients in feed. The research collaboration leverages Onda’s expertise in aquaculture health and nutrition and the CCC’s knowledge of canola production and its uses in livestock and animal feed to gain a broader understanding of canola as a key ingredient in high-performance aquaculture feed formulations.
“This project provides an excellent opportunity to evaluate canola meal in a new light,” said Ivan Tankovski, Director of Nutrition for Onda. “The digestibility and benchtop studies showed promising results, and we are now eagerly anticipating the results from the next trial to complete the picture.”
The findings from this research are expected to contribute to more sustainable aquaculture production methods and support the industry’s commitment to reducing its reliance on marine-based ingredients.
The PEI BioAlliance: How Canada’s smallest province is leading bioscience innovation
The PEI BioAlliance was featured in the most recent edition of BIOTECanada’s Insights Magazine. Read the full article here.
Government-Industry Partnership breaks ground on $50 million BioAccelerator
The BioAccelerator will support Canada’s rapidly expanding bioscience industry
Charlottetown, PE – Today, the Governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island broke ground on the BioAccelerator, a unique multi-function facility with 60,000 sq. ft. of biomanufacturing space that will provide facilities and services to researchers, entrepreneurs, and bioscience-based companies. The BioAccelerator is the largest single investment in economic development infrastructure in PEI history.
Spearheaded by the PEI BioAlliance, the BioAccelerator will provide essential biomanufacturing infrastructure to advance the bioscience and life sciences ecosystem regionally and nationally. The BioAccelerator will support the growth of the PEI bioscience cluster, enhance Canadian pandemic preparedness, and advance Atlantic Canada’s position as a national centre of expertise in bio-based product development and biomanufacturing.
“Prince Edward Island has become a real leader in Canada’s bioscience network,” said the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan, on behalf of Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. “The new BioAccelerator facility will create much-needed capacity to help this important sector reach its full potential and I’m so pleased that our government is supporting the next phase of growth.”
Located in the BioCommons Research Park in Charlottetown, the BioAccelerator builds upon recent public and private sector investments such as BIOVECTRA’s first-in-Canada mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility, the Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL), and the Bioscience Manufacturing Incubator.
Tenants in the BioAccelerator will include early-stage and small and medium-sized enterprises from Atlantic Canada and international locations. The BioAccelerator will host the facilities and expertise of the National Research Council of Canada’s atypical fermentation labs, CASTL’s national headquarters, and an expanded lead training facility. CASTL provides hands-on biopharmaceutical manufacturing training for the talent pipeline essential to Canada’s Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy, including pandemic response.
“The BioAccelerator speaks to the strength of collaboration between government and industry, and to what we can achieve when we share a vision of PEI as a place of possibility and prosperity,” said Hon. Dennis King, Premier of Prince Edward Island. “It is a proud moment to see the progress being made to get this state-of-the-art facility off the ground.”
PEI’s bioscience community is recognized nationally and internationally for its collaborative economic cluster model that drives innovation and sector growth. Through the aligned efforts of business, academia, research, and government partners, the sector now includes 60 bioscience companies earning over $600 million annually in sales, making bioscience the second-largest industry in Prince Edward Island. The PEI Bioscience Cluster has surpassed 2025 growth targets and is well on its way to becoming a billion-dollar industry by 2030.
“Prince Edward Island companies and research organizations have put our province on the map for our expertise in bio-manufacturing, from mRNA vaccines, to natural health products, to fish health and nutrition. The BioAccelerator will be an incredible addition to that capability,” said Charmaine Noonan, Board Chair, PEI BioAlliance and Senior Director, Merck Animal Health PEI.
“It is gratifying to see the outstanding support of our federal and provincial partners for the bioscience sector and today more specifically for this BioAccelerator project,” said Rory Francis, CEO of the PEI BioAlliance. “Our goal is to provide a positive return on this investment for PEI, for the Atlantic Region, and for all of Canada.”
The BioAccelerator will be operated by the PEI BioAlliance. Construction of the BioAccelerator is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026.
Media Contact
Jenny Dunne
Manager, Communications and Marketing
PEI BioAlliance
Nutracelle wins Product of the Year for Nutramin Vitamins
Nutracelle was recently awarded the prestigious Foodie’s Choice Product of the Year at the 2024 Food and Beverage Atlantic awards. This event celebrates innovation and excellence in the food and beverage industry, bringing together leading brands and products that are making a significant impact.
Read more about this exciting achievement in Nutracelle’s announcement.
BIOVECTRA acquired by Agilent Technologies
Charlottetown, PE – An agreement was signed today for Agilent Technologies to acquire BIOVECTRA for $925 million (USD). This acquisition includes all BIOVECTRA facilities and employees in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia, Canada.
BIOVECTRA is a North American CDMO, headquartered in PEI, that specializes in clinical-to-commercial scale production capabilities for biologics, synthetic small molecules, pDNA and mRNA, highly potent APIs, and bioreagents.
The acquisition will expand Agilent’s end-to-end biopharma solutions with BIOVECTRA’s biologics capabilities to accelerate drug development and manufacturing and is expected to close before 2025.
“Congratulations to BIOVECTRA and Agilent Technologies for achieving this milestone,” said Charmaine Noonan, Chair of the Board of Directors of the PEI BioAlliance. “This acquisition not only highlights the exceptional talent and innovation coming from our region but also underscores the global impact of our bioscience cluster. We look forward to continuing our partnership with BIOVECTRA as they embark on this exciting new chapter.”
Founded in 1970 by PEI entrepreneur Dr. Regis Duffy and owned by H.I.G. Capital since 2019, BIOVECTRA is a leader in Atlantic Canada’s bioscience cluster. The company recently made $240 million of capital investments to expand its operational footprint in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia and was named Canada’s Top Employer in 2022 and 2023.
The BioAlliance has a collaborative relationship with BIOVECTRA, with CEO Oliver Technow serving as Board Chair from 2021-2024.
“The PEI BioAlliance celebrates this acquisition as a testament to the global recognition of BIOVECTRA’s exceptional achievements,” said Rory Francis, CEO of the BioAlliance. “We eagerly anticipate continuing our collaborative efforts with BIOVECTRA and now Agilent as an integral part of the PEI bioscience cluster.”
Media Contact
Jenny Dunne
Manager, Communications and Marketing
PEI BioAlliance
C: 902.388.0988
E: jenny@peibioalliance.com
About the PEI BioAlliance
Since 2005, the PEI BioAlliance has coordinated the development and growth of the province’s bioscience cluster and established the conditions for business success. The cluster creates high-quality jobs in human, animal, and fish health and nutrition. The PEI BioAlliance is a partnership of 60 businesses, academic and research institutions, and federal and provincial government agencies dedicated to establishing the bioscience sector as a pillar in the economic foundation of the province and Atlantic Canada.
About BIOVECTRA
BIOVECTRA is a global biotech and pharmaceutical CDMO (contract development and manufacturing organization) that specializes in clinical-to-commercial scale production capabilities for: biologics, small molecules, bioreagents, lipids, pDNA, mRNA and LNP manufacturing. Flexibility, creativity, process optimization and compliance are at the heart of our method. With close to 55 years of experience, and cGMP facilities in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia, Canada, we assure our programs advance on time and with the highest quality outcomes.
Merck Animal Health Completes Acquisition of Elanco’s Aqua Business
Merck Animal Health announced the completion of its acquisition of the aqua business of Elanco Animal Health Incorporated. The completion of this acquisition bolsters Merck Animal Health’s position in the aqua industry with a comprehensive approach to promote fish health, welfare and sustainability in aquaculture, conservation, and fisheries.
“With the completion of this acquisition, we are well positioned within the aquaculture industry with a robust and comprehensive portfolio across warm water, cold water, vaccines, anti-parasitic treatments, water supplements and nutrition,” said Rick DeLuca, president, Merck Animal Health. “We are excited to welcome our new colleagues to Merck Animal Health and we look forward to working together, driven by our common purpose of the Science of Healthier Animals®.”
The increasing use of medicines and vaccines, nutritionals and supplements for aquatic species is driven by the growing demand for protein and food safety, ensuring a supply of quality food and protecting public health.
BIOVECTRA partners on Canadian solution to establish a domestic supply chain for immunotherapies
BIOVECTRA is pleased to be part of a Canadian solution with NGEN partners CCRM, Precision Nanosytems (Cytiva), Northern RNA, and OmniaBio to establish a Canadian supply chain network to accelerate and standardize lentiviral vector development from clinical to commercial manufacturing.
Elanco aqua business purchased by Merck Animal Health
PEI fish health assets a key part of the transaction
Charlottetown, PE – Elanco Animal Health has announced it has entered into an agreement to sell its aqua business to Merck Animal Health for approximately $1.3 billion in cash. Elanco’s aqua business includes products across both warm-water and cold-water species, generating an estimated $175 million in annual revenue. The divestiture includes the transfer of manufacturing sites in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island and Dong Nai, Vietnam, as well as approximately 280 commercial and manufacturing employees.
In Prince Edward Island, Elanco currently employs 140 skilled workers, producing some of the leading fish health vaccines in the world. The PEI business began in the late 1980’s as a startup called AquaHealth, a spinout of Connaught Labs, with support from the Province of PEI. AquaHeath was one of the founding companies of the PEI BioAlliance when the company employed only 20 people, and later went on to be purchased by Novartis Animal Health in 2000. As a result of solid global sales and investment, Novartis grew the business to over 120 employees and in 2015, Elanco purchased all Novartis Animal Health assets.
“Merck’s purchase of the Elanco aqua assets is a very positive sign for the growth and development of the fish health product business here in PEI and globally,” said Rory Francis, CEO, Prince Edward Island BioAlliance. “Elanco has been a great partner, and we look forward to working with the Merck team to ensure their investment in PEI is a benefit to all.”
The BioAlliance has an existing close relationship with Merck Animal Health, with CEO Rick DeLuca serving as Honourary Chair of the VetHealth Global Animal Health and Nutrition Conference in Charlottetown in 2017.
“We are excited for the acquisition of Elanco’s aqua products, solutions as well as the capabilities and expertise the team brings to our business,” said DeLuca. “We believe this acquisition, coupled with our commercial and scientific prowess, will deliver enhanced benefits for our aqua customers.”
Aquaculture is the fastest growing source of animal protein in the world. Prince Edward Island has established itself as a global centre of expertise in fish health product development and commercialization with nine companies involved in developing fish health technologies, as well as the Atlantic Veterinary College’s fish health programs.
Media Contact
Clara Deacon
Director of Communications and Marketing
PEI BioAlliance
C: 403.701.2815
E: clara@peibioalliance.com
About the PEI BioAlliance
Since 2005, the PEI BioAlliance has coordinated the development and growth of the province’s bioscience cluster and established the conditions for business success. The cluster creates high-quality, Island-based jobs in the areas of human, animal, and fish health and nutrition. The PEI BioAlliance is a partnership of 60 businesses, academic and research institutions, and federal and provincial government agencies, dedicated to establishing the bioscience sector as a key pillar in the economic foundation of the province and Atlantic Canada.
About Elanco
Elanco Animal Health is a global leader in animal health dedicated to innovating and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets, creating value for farmers, pet owners, veterinarians, stakeholders, and society as a whole. With nearly 70 years of animal health heritage, they are committed to helping our customers improve the health of animals in their care, while also making a meaningful impact on local and global communities. At Elanco, they are driven by their vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and Elanco Healthy Purpose™ Sustainability Initiatives – all to advance the health of animals, people, and the planet.
About Merck
Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health outside the United States and Canada, is the global animal health business of Merck. Through their commitment to The Science of Healthier Animals®, they offer a wide range of veterinary medicines, vaccines and health management solutions and services, as well as an extensive suite of connected technology that includes identification, traceability and monitoring products.
CASTL Exective Director Penny Walsh-McGuire recognized as distinguished alumni
CASTL Executive Director Penny Walsh-McGuire has been named one of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards from Holland College.
Alpha Cognition Announces FDA Acceptance of New Drug Application for Mild-to-Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease
Alpha Cognition, a biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for debilitating neurodegenerative disorders, is pleased to announce that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has completed its filing review and has accepted the company’s New Drug Application (NDA) for ALPHA-1062, a proprietary, patented, delayed release oral tablet formulation in development for the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s Disease. The NDA has been granted a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) goal date of July 27th, 2024.
Alpha Cognition is a publicly-traded spinout of PEI company Neurodyn.
The NDA submission is based on results from four studies the Company conducted demonstrating bioequivalence for ALPHA-1062 to galantamine and galantamine ER. Adverse events documented across all studies for ALPHA-1062 were less than 2% and no insomnia was observed.
“The FDA’s acceptance of our NDA for ALPHA-1062 brings us another significant step closer to delivering a much-needed treatment to patients suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease,” said Michael McFadden, Chief Executive Officer of Alpha Cognition. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the FDA throughout the review process.”
You’re Invited – Holiday Reception
On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the PEI BioAlliance, Board Chair Oliver Technow invites you to join us in celebration of the holiday season.
📅 Thursday, December 14
⏰ 5 – 7 p.m.
📍 Rodd Charlottetown Hotel, 75 Kent Street.
✉ RSVP: Event Brite
In partnership with Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and Avantor (delivered by VWR).
BIOVECTRA Launches Specialized Capabilities in mRNA Drug Product Development and Biomanufacturing
Today BIOVECTRA celebrates the completion of its $90 million plus biologics expansion at the company’s new state-of-the-art Biomanufacturing Centre with project partners the Government of Canada and Government of Prince Edward Island. (Source: BIOVECTRA).
“This expansion places BIOVECTRA at the forefront of supporting the next generation of treatments for today’s rare and incurable diseases and producing vaccines to tackle future pandemics,” said BIOVECTRA CEO Oliver Technow. “Today also marks a milestone in the accelerated growth of Atlantic Canada’s bioscience sector and celebrates the creation of highly skilled careers in life sciences.”
BIOVECTRA’s expansion was realized on an ambitious 18-month timeline, from groundbreaking to completion, and adds Canadian-based solutions to a global effort to deliver the next generation of patient care through mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. This suite of BIOVECTRA capabilities specialized in mRNA, pDNA, lipid nanoparticle and fill / finish work is unique and the first of its kind in Canada. It marks a milestone in Canada’s strategy for better preparedness in a future health crisis by creating specialized domestic biomanufacturing capacity.
“Today’s grand opening of BIOVECTRA’s new state-of-the-art facility strengthens Atlantic Canada’s status as a hub for biomanufacturing and life sciences. Our Government’s participation to this project is another important step towards cementing Canada’s position as a global leader in the sector. It enables BIOVECTRA to boost Canada’s domestic production capacity for vaccines and therapeutics for Canadians, while building a strong life and science sector and creating hundreds of well-paying jobs in the region.” -The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
“BIOVECTRA’s expansion into mRNA vaccines and therapeutics puts Prince Edward Island on the map as a global player in the manufacturing of drug therapeutics,” says Premier Dennis King. “This work will help to make the next generation of life-saving treatments available to Islanders, Canadians and all global citizens while having positive ripple effects for into PEI’s health, education and labour market sectors.”
mRNA and pDNA products are emerging globally as the next generation of solutions for improved patient care. From research discovery through to final commercial vials, BIOVECTRA can support clients from biotech start-ups to blue-chip pharmaceutical companies with their mRNA / pDNA drug product projects from its’ Atlantic Canada-based operations.
Expansion Recap
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- New Biomanufacturing Centre (Charlottetown, PEI): 36,000 square feet of cGMP manufacturing space for mRNA, pDNA and Lipid Nano Particle formulation. Vaccine and therapeutic production capacity for 160 million doses per year and fill/finish capacity for 70 million doses per year for commercial distribution.
- Specialized Process Development Science Laboratories(Dartmouth, NS & Charlottetown, PEI): 27,000 combined square feet of large molecule process science and analytical laboratories for mRNA, pDNA, LNP and protein-based vaccines and therapeutics.
- Single-Use Biologics Fermentation Suite (Windsor, NS): pDNA and protein by microbial fermentation in a cGMP facility running 100 litre to 1,000 litre batches. It is the only single-use suite its’ kind in Canada.
- Creates research partnerships and new development opportunities for professionals in the Life Sciences and biomanufacturing sector, including the addition of 125 new positions in PEI and NS and up to 225 co-op terms.
Helpful Links
BIOVECTRA Biologics Expansion Launch Video
BIOVECTRA mRNA Vaccine and Bio-manufacturing Facility Announced
5 reasons to pursue a career in the bioscience sector
The bioscience sector in Prince Edward Island is a growing industry, with unlimited opportunity. Here are five compelling reasons why individuals may wish to discover a new and rewarding career in bioscience.
1. Diversity of roles and positions
Jobs in the bioscience sector can range from research scientists, lab technicians, quality control managers and chemical process engineers, to maintenance and production technicians, or even business administration roles including accounting, marketing, human resources, and sales. The sky is the limit.
2. Size of the industry and opportunities for advancement
The PEI bioscience sector is a high-value industry employing more than 2,200 highly skilled and well-paid workers. Including more than 60 companies, the PEI Bioscience Cluster has surpassed 2025 growth targets and is well on its way to becoming a billion-dollar industry by 2030. There are significant opportunities for high-performing individuals looking to learn and improve their skills and grow their careers. Additionally, the average employment income across all workers in the bioscience cluster is 44% higher than the average for all workers on the Island.
3. Impact of bioscience in solving global challenges
From vaccines and drugs to fight disease, to sustainable food production and climate change mitigation, biotechnology holds solutions to some of the biggest challenges of our time and Prince Edward Island is making its mark. Join the bioscience sector and contribute to an industry that is making a real societal impact and transforming our world, fostering healthier lives, food security and environmentally sustainable practices.
4. Living in PEI
For those considering relocating to PEI, or for those looking for reasons to stay, the Island has a number of attractive benefits. More and more multinational and emerging companies have chosen to locate in PEI and a key factor in that decision is the value of the location and lifestyle that the Island offers.
PEI is celebrated for its relaxed atmosphere and a slower pace than you’ll find in many larger centres. Set against pastural countryside and some of the world’s best beaches, PEI is also a hub of culture, alive with music, storytelling and art, and is also Canada’s Food Island. Despite our more casual pace, or perhaps because of it, business thrives in PEI, with the added bonus of not having to spend a few hours on the freeway to get to work. When you’re a part of the PEI bioscience cluster, your business and research resources are rarely more than 10 minutes away.
5. Hiring network
Updated as positions become available, the PEI BioAlliance website has a job postings page which consolidates all open positions across the cluster, including direct links to apply. The website also provides links to learn more about the companies that are hiring. If you’d prefer to receive real-time alerts directly in your inbox, there is an option to sign up for email notifications, where you’ll receive ongoing updates on the latest opportunities in bioscience. You can also email your resume to vivian@peibioalliance.com.
New Canadian Venture Fund Takes Aim at Food Insecurity
As the impacts of food insecurity and climate change persist, a sustainable, homegrown biotechnology sector will be key to a sustainable and resilient economy in the coming years. It’s with these challenges in mind that Nàdarra Ventures, a new Canadian venture capital fund at the forefront of investing in sustainable biotechnology for food, agriculture, and materials, today announced its launch with founding investments of $20 million from Farm Credit Canada (FCC), Natural Products Canada (NPC), and family offices across the country.
The PEI BioAlliance is a founding partner of Natural Products Canada and continues to be a node partner in its national ecosystem.
PEI BioAlliance seeking expressions of interest for BioAccelerator leasing
Application form now available for companies interested in leasing BioAccelerator space
Charlottetown, PE – The PEI BioAlliance is seeking expressions of interest from companies that wish to lease space in the new BioAccelerator, due to be completed in 2025. The BioAccelerator will include 15,000 sq. ft. of R&D incubation suites, as well as four 3,000 sq. ft. biomanufacturing units for medium term leasing. It will also include 12,000 sq. ft. of pilot plant suites for process development and optimization (with a focus on fermentation and natural product chemistry) which will be available for short-term leasing. Those interested can submit their interest through the BioAccelerator lease application form.
Earlier this year, the Governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island announced a $50 million investment in the BioAccelerator, the largest single investment in economic development infrastructure in PEI history. Situated in the BioCommons Research Park in Charlottetown, the BioAccelerator will be a unique multi-function facility with 75,000 sq. ft. of biomanufacturing space that will provide facilities and services to researchers, entrepreneurs, and bioscience-based companies operating along the full continuum from research and product development, process development, manufacturing scale-up, and biomanufacturing skills and training. The BioAccelerator will be a biomanufacturing centre of expertise and a national asset, and support bioscience-based research and development in Atlantic Canada.
Tenants in the BioAccelerator will include early-stage companies, small, and medium-sized enterprises from Atlantic Canada, across Canada, and from international locations. It will also include the facilities and expertise of the National Research Council of Canada’s atypical fermentation labs as well as the Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL), providing hands-on biopharmaceutical manufacturing training for the talent pipeline that will be essential to Canada’s Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy. The BioAccelerator will be CASTL’s national headquarters and expanded lead training facility.
The BioAccelerator will be operated by the PEI BioAlliance. Once detailed engineering design is complete, construction tenders will be issued and awarded, with construction expected to be completed by end of 2025.
For more information on the BioAccelerator, visit peibioalliance.com/bioaccelerator.
Transforming animal health globally, TARGAN joins bioscience business incubator
Charlottetown, PE – TARGAN Inc. is the latest company to join Emergence, Atlantic Canada’s bioscience business incubator dedicated to assisting start-ups and growth-stage companies in the commercialization of bioscience-based technologies and services. The region’s unique ecosystem and collaborative network drove TARGAN’s decision to join as the company seeks to create a more sustainable food supply chain, improving animal health, and eliminating disease.
Emergence plays a pivotal role in attracting innovative companies like TARGAN to Atlantic Canada. The region’s commitment to fostering innovation, bolstered by organizations such as the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), Innovation PEI, University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), The Center for Aquaculture Technologies Canada (CATC) and PEI BioAlliance, makes PEI an ideal hub for TARGAN’s growth and success.
“Selecting Prince Edward Island for future aquaculture operations is a decision underpinned by the region’s collaborative spirit,” said Ramin Karimpour, founder and CEO at TARGAN. “We’re entering an environment primed to nurture and accelerate TARGAN’s transformative animal health technologies. The access to these valued organizations combined with the region’s strong aquaculture industry presence and private industry base, forms a unique environment that aligns seamlessly with our objectives.”
Founded in 2015, TARGAN aims to empower animal protein producers to maximize efficiency and minimize losses through effective, humane vaccine delivery with breakthrough technologies. The company has successfully commercialized products in the poultry industry and is now planning to expand offering into aquaculture and livestock. TARGAN’s presence in PEI will focus on developing products for the aquaculture industry and partnering with Atlantic Canada-based design and manufacturing companies to improve products across all species served. The business’s proprietary solutions harness the latest in software and hardware innovations, including high-speed imaging, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, to meet the world’s growing food demands.
“We are very pleased to have TARGAN join the Emergence Incubator,” said Jason Cleaversmith, Director of Incubation, PEI BioAlliance. “Their unique and highly disruptive technology is positioned to maximize production yields, while prioritizing animal health, and we look forward to working with them on their innovative approach to aquaculture vaccination and AI-powered data systems.”
Emergence provides companies with business incubation services including the Critical Path program, one-on-one and team mentorship, business strategy and advisory services, as well as access to the Emergence Performance Network.
Learn more about Emergence at emergencebioincubator.com.
About TARGAN
Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, TARGAN is a biotechnology systems company poised to transform animal protein production industries worldwide by bringing affordable, individualized care technologies to the market. World meat consumption is expected to double by 2050. The world’s growing population, along with the popularity of animal protein, is responsible for the growth in meat consumption. The industry continues to evolve to meet market expectations, including the trend towards antibiotic-free production. Producers are seeking novel solutions to improve health standards and vaccination procedures while allowing for a similar level of productivity in the absence of antibiotics and other chemicals. TARGAN is bringing advanced technology solutions to the poultry, aquaculture and swine industries to address this demand. For more information, visit TARGAN.com.
Quannessence Skincare: The Beauty of Business
