Contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) Mabion has launched a €500k oncology services contest at BIO International Convention 2025.
The scheme is designed to accelerate the development of recombinant protein-based cancer therapies.
It will culminate at CPHI Worldwide in Frankfurt this October, and will champion promising biotechs looking to scale their oncological innovations.
Mabion's initiative will allow biotechs the opportunity to be guided through pre-qualification, NDAs and proposal shaping with the company's business development team.
"Despite unprecedented scientific advances, many oncology treatments still face hurdles at the funding stage," said Julita Balcerek, COO at Mabion.
"This contest is our invitation to innovators who just need the right partner. We’re offering more than a prize; we’re offering a path to impact”.
To assess the scientific merit, feasibility and potential patient impact of each innovation, Mabion has gathered an independent jury of experts, including:
- Prof. Tadeusz Pietrucha, Medical Biotechnology Department at Medical University of Łódź: Translational Oncology Expert
- Prof. Przemysław Juszczyński, Department of Experimental Hematology and Transfusionology at Lazarski University: Scientific Innovation Specialist
- Prof. Gestur Vidarsson. PI and head of Immunoglobulin Research at Sanquin Research at the Utrecht University and Chair of the Immunoglobulin Biotherapeutics group: Leading Expert in Immunoglobulin-based Biotherapeutics
- Alicja Santos, Ph.D., CEO of Polonium Foundation: Biotech Talent Advocate
- Julita Balcerek, Ph.D., COO of Mabion: CDMO Strategy Leader
The winner will receive a €500,000 credit toward Mabion’s integrated CDMO capabilities, including process and analytical development, upstream/downstream processing, and clinical supply manufacturing.
Runner-up entries may also be invited into partnership discussions, reinforcing Mabion’s focus on long-term collaboration.
"Wherever you’re based, this is your chance to accelerate your breakthrough programme with Mabion’s financial support and world class services," Balcerek added. "Mabion is proud to help turn scientific ambition into clinical reality.”
The launch is supported by a multi-channel campaign featuring LinkedIn promotions, media outreach, email engagement, and in-booth activations at BIO and CPHI. Countdown content and giveaways will maintain visibility throughout the program.
