June 3, 2026 | Minneapolis
Agenda: BioNorStar 2026
Shaping the Future of Minnesota Biotech. Join us for a comprehensive one-day symposium featuring regional leaders and technical experts navigating the complexities of the biotech ecosystem.
Morning Sessions
Kick off the symposium with technical focus areas and landscape analysis essential for navigating the biotech ecosystem.
The State of the Minnesota Biotech Landscape in 2026
Timothy Olsen
Symposium Organizer
10:15 AM
Regulatory Frameworks & Efficiency in Clinical Trials
Sarah Jenkins
Founder & CEO, GenoCore
11:30 AM
Navigating Federal Grant Submissions for Biotech Startups
Julian Vance
Director of Grants, Horizon Foundation
12:00 PM
Lunch & Networking
Community Showcase
Explore regional biotech innovations and startup displays in the main hall.
Keynote Address
11:00 AM — 12:00 PM
The Next Frontier: AI in Genetic Sequencing
Dr. Lawrence Thorne, Ph.D.
Dr. Thorne explores how artificial intelligence is accelerating personalized medicine in Minnesota, transforming raw genomic data into life-saving therapeutic insights within record timeframes.
12:30 PM
Networking Lunch
Grand Ballroom Foyer
7:30 PM — OPTIONAL
Post-Symposium Dinner
Continue the conversation at Nicollet Island Inn for an intimate three-course dinner focusing on startup investment.
Afternoon Sessions
Deep dive into specialized tracks focusing on regulatory mastery, grant procurement, and commercialization strategies within the Minnesota biotech corridor.
1:30 PM
2:45 PM
3:15 PM
4:30 PM
Technical Panel: Regulatory Navigation in 2026
Lead: Dr. Robert Chen & Julian Vance
Networking Coffee Break & Startup Showcase
Fostering connections in the BioNorStar Innovation Lounge.
Workshop: Federal Grant Writing for Bio-Innovators
Led by Sarah Jenkins, Founder of GenoCore
Closing Fireside Chat: The Path Forward
Geof Hannigan & Timothy Olsen with Guest Panelists
4:30 PM
Networking Reception
Close the day with local ecosystem peers and prospective collaborators in a relaxed setting. Build connections that will shape the future of Minnesota's biotech landscape over refreshments and meaningful dialogue.
Closing Remarks
6:00 PM — Summary & Next Steps. Join us as we conclude BioNorStar 2026 with final insights and a roadmap for the future of Minnesota biotechnology.