Atlantic Canadian bioscience companies pursue global partnerships at BIO 2026

Trade mission to San Diego will help life science companies build connections, attract investment and grow exports

 

June 23, 2026 · Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) 

Atlantic Canadian life science companies are developing innovative products, technologies and services that compete in markets around the world. Through the Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth Agreement, the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provinces

are helping these firms connect with international partners, attract investment and build the relationships they need to grow.

Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced a non-repayable contribution to the Prince Edward Island BioAlliance Inc. to lead the Atlantic Canada delegation to BIO 2026 in San Diego, California, on behalf of the Atlantic Canada BIO Industries Alliance (ACBA) ($105,000).

The Atlantic Canada delegation includes 16 companies and research organizations that will take part in engagements with potential partners and investors, including company showcases and targeted one-on-one meetings through BIO’s business partnering platform. As the organization leading the delegation for the ACBA, the PEI BioAlliance coordinated pre-conference partnering sessions, marketing and promotion, and is supporting targeted business-to-business activities at the event.

By helping life sciences companies and research organizations connect with new global partners, investors and customers, the project supports Atlantic Canada’s continued growth in one of the world’s most competitive and innovation-driven sectors.

The mission is supported through the Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth Agreement, a federal-provincial initiative that helps Atlantic Canadian firms increase exports and attract foreign investment.

Quotes

“When we help Atlantic Canadian companies reach new markets, we are helping build one strong Canadian economy. Through the Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth Agreement, BIO 2026 will put our region’s life sciences strengths in front of international partners, investors and customers, helping companies grow exports, attract investment and compete in a changing global economy.”

-        The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“Our bioscience sector is one of Prince Edward Island’s great success stories. Island companies are developing innovative products and technologies that are making an impact around the world. This mission will help strengthen connections with investors, customers, and partners while opening new opportunities for growth. By working together across Atlantic Canada, we are helping our businesses compete internationally and creating economic opportunities that benefit Islanders.” 

-       The Honourable Rob Lantz, Premier of Prince Edward Island

“This support creates meaningful opportunities for Atlantic Canadian bioscience companies to compete on a global stage. BIO is where relationships are built, partnerships are formed, and future growth takes shape. For a sector driven by innovation, international presence and connectivity are essential to expanding commercial opportunities and strengthening long-term competitiveness."

-        Lauren Ledwell, CEO, PEI BioAlliance

Quick facts

• BIO 2026 is the world’s largest biotech partnering and education event, bringing together global biotech leaders, investors, researchers and innovators from more than 60 countries to pursue partnerships, business development and commercialization opportunities.

• Companies are expected to take part in more than 175 one-on-one meetings with potential partners focused on export sales, investment and technology commercialization.

• The project will also support an Atlantic Bio-Industry-Government Round Table and the Bio Coastal Connections Business Networking Reception to facilitate connections with international business leaders, investors, and researchers.

• The Atlantic Canada BIO Industries Alliance (ACBA) is comprised of life science and bioscience organization members from New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. 

• The support announced today is provided through the Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth Agreement, a federal-provincial initiative focused on helping Atlantic Canadian firms increase exports and attract more foreign investment to the region.