The premier northern-hemisphere springtime partnering conference for the health and life sciences industry

Global Victoria, in collaboration with Austrade, is facilitating a trade mission to the 3-day BIO-Europe Spring 2026 conference in Lisbon, Portugal, supporting export-ready Victorian life sciences companies to forge European partnerships, secure new clients, and attract clinical trials into Victoria.

Why BIO-Europe Spring?

BIO-Europe Spring 2026 is the premier northern-hemisphere springtime partnering conference for the health and life sciences industry. The conference connects the industry to Europe’s top innovation centres to cultivate strategic partnerships.

BIO-Europe Spring 2026 offers the opportunity to expand your knowledge and network by combining a conference program that delivers insights into the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in the sector with networking opportunities including evening receptions and access to the event partnering platform for one-to-one meetings.

In 2025, 20,000 one-to-one partnering meetings took place, which was attended by more than 3,700 people, representing almost 2,000 companies.

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’s 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.

Portugal itself boasts a centralised healthcare system renowned for embracing innovation. Portugal’s pharma market, valued at €3 billion, including €1.734.2 million p.a. in pharmaceutical production. The market has been exhibiting slight growth and represents over 2% of GDP, with an ageing population creating a growing demand for healthcare solutions in Portugal.

What types of businesses should apply?

Victorian businesses ready to scale are encouraged to apply from the following industry sectors:

  • Biotechnology
  • Research/ Drug Development
  • Medical Technology
  • Clinical Trials

What's included?

Global Victoria will provide access to on-the-ground support and exhibition space on the Austrade stand at the BIO-Europe conference, and conference registration (one per company) which includes access to conference networking events and online business matching via the exhibition organisers.

What's not included?

It is the delegate's responsibility to manage and cover costs associated with:

  • 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