Europe’s largest and longest-running partnering conference for the global biotechnology and biopharma industry.
Global Victoria, in collaboration with Austrade, is leading a trade mission to BIO-Europe 2026 in Cologne, Germany, from 8–11 November.
Why BIO-Europe 2026?
Europe's premier life sciences partnering event brings together more than 5,800 delegates from over 3,200 companies across 60+ countries to:
- explore new business opportunities
- cultivate strategic partnerships
- share insights
- negotiate investment
- connect services and solutions to life sciences innovators
BIO-Europe 2026 offers the opportunity for delegates to discover the latest industry and market trends through a curated program delivered by biotech and pharma leaders.
The convention combines an educational program with networking opportunities, including evening receptions and one-on-one meetings managed via a partnering platform.
The opportunity in the EU for health and life sciences companies
The EU life sciences sector is valued at more than €1.5 trillion and accounts for 9% of EU GDP. It is home to 15% of the world’s top life science companies.
The EU market is actively seeking novel ways to prevent, diagnose and treat disease. Increasingly it is looking towards Australia as a high-quality and well-regulated partner in innovation.
Why should you apply?
- Partnerships: Forge partnerships with leading European life sciences companies, research institutions and investors.
- Investment: Connect with the capital and investors to help scale your business and accelerate growth.
- Networking: Build valuable connections across the global biotech and pharma community at one of the sector's premier events.
- Business attraction: Showcase Victoria's world-class life sciences capability and attract partners to your business.
- Market intelligence gathering: Gain first-hand insight into European market trends, opportunities and the competitive landscape.
What types of businesses should apply?
Victorian businesses ready to scale are encouraged to apply from the following industry sectors:
- Biotechnology and medical technology companies
- Clinical trial service companies
- Research institutes
- Life sciences start-ups
What's included?
Global Victoria, as part of Team Australia, will partner with Austrade and other Australian state governments to deliver the Australian Pavilion at BIO-Europe 2026, provide on-the-ground support, and host a pre-mission briefing.
What's not included?
It is the delegate's responsibility to manage and cover costs associated with:
- conference registration
- airfares
- visas
- insurance
- accommodation
- costs incurred outside of trade mission activities, such as meals and external activities
- transport costs, such as taxis, ride share and public transport
Our terms and conditions
Familiarise yourself with our terms and conditions for participation in our trade mission program.
Contact us
To find out more information about the trade mission, connect with Libby Kruse, Senior Trade Manager, Health and Life Sciences