If you’re even remotely connected to the biotechnology or pharmaceutical world, the BIO International Convention is one event you can’t afford to miss. Held in Boston, USA, this annual convention is where innovation, science, and business collide. It brings together some of the brightest minds in life sciences and connects them with people who can turn ideas into real-world solutions.
Whether you’re a startup founder, a researcher, an investor, or part of a multinational biotech company, this event gives you access to insights, contacts, and opportunities that are simply unmatched.
Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect.
Where and When It’s Happening
- Venue: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Dates: June 2 – 5, 2025
The Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) is a top-tier venue located in the Seaport District. It’s spacious, modern, and easy to reach, with nearby hotels, restaurants, and public transit all within walking distance. It’s the perfect setting for a global event of this scale.
What Is the BIO International Convention?
The BIO International Convention is the world’s largest biotechnology conference. It brings together companies, governments, academics, and startups from around the globe — all working in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and related industries.
You’ll find attendees and exhibitors from:
- Biopharmaceutical and biotech companies
- Academic research institutions
- Venture capital firms and investors
- Policy and government organizations
- Contract research and manufacturing companies (CROs/CMOs)
- Digital health and medical device companies
- Legal and consulting firms in the healthcare space
This event isn’t about just watching presentations — it’s about creating partnerships, launching products, and setting the stage for the next big breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.
What You’ll Experience
The convention is jam-packed with content and opportunities. Here’s a look at what to expect:
- Educational sessions with expert panels and keynote speakers
- One-on-one partnering meetings using BIO’s official matchmaking platform
- Exhibition hall featuring hundreds of global companies
- Fireside chats and CEO panels with insights from industry leaders
- Startup Stadium where emerging companies pitch their innovations
- Networking lounges and receptions to connect informally
- Workshops and sessions focused on policy, funding, and market access
Each day is full of sessions that cover everything from gene therapy to digital health, regulatory pathways to manufacturing innovations.
Who Should Attend?
This convention draws thousands of professionals from across the industry, including:
- Biotech and pharma executives
- Scientists and research teams
- Investors and venture capitalists
- Licensing and business development professionals
- Regulatory and legal advisors
- Policymakers and public health experts
- University and academic researchers
- Technology providers and CROs
- Startups and entrepreneurs
Whether you’re there to find a partner, pitch a product, learn about the latest science, or simply grow your network, this is the place to be.
Cost to Attend
The cost of attending varies based on your role and how early you register. Here’s a rough idea:
- Early Registration (BIO Member): Around $1,800 – $2,200
- Non-Member Pricing: Usually higher, around $2,500+
- Academic & Government Rates: Typically discounted
- Startup Packages: Often include access to pitch sessions and partnering meetings
- Exhibit Hall Only Pass: Lower cost, ideal for quick visits or exhibitor exploration
BIO also offers partnering-only badges for those focused purely on business development meetings.
Where to Stay Nearby
Since the BCEC is centrally located, there are many hotels just steps away. Here are a few top options:
- The Westin Boston Seaport District – Connected to the venue
- Aloft Boston Seaport – A short walk, modern and budget-friendly
- Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel – Stylish and close
- YOTEL Boston – Trendy with compact rooms, ideal for solo travelers
- Seaport Hotel Boston – Comfortable and known for great service
Most hotels offer shuttle services to the venue if not within walking distance. Booking early is highly recommended.
Perks and Benefits of Attending
There are more than a few reasons why BIO International Convention is on every biotech professional’s calendar:
- Meet potential partners across industries and geographies
- Discover emerging trends in science and health innovation
- Gain regulatory insight from FDA and other global agencies
- Learn funding strategies directly from investors and venture firms
- See product launches and research firsts before they hit the market
- Participate in global discussions about public health and policy
- Promote your company to thousands of targeted attendees
- Get inspired by science that’s changing lives
The biggest takeaway for many attendees isn’t just information — it’s the new connections they leave with.
Networking That Actually Works
BIO makes networking easy and efficient with its BIO One-on-One Partnering™ system. You can:
- Set up meetings before the event even starts
- Match with people based on interests and goals
- Use private meeting spaces at the venue
- Plan back-to-back discussions across the three main days
This isn’t your average badge-swap event — it’s structured and high-impact networking.
What Makes Boston a Great Host?
Boston is known as one of the top biotech and life science hubs in the world. Home to institutions like Harvard, MIT, Mass General, and many pharma HQs, the city blends academic power with industrial strength.
You’re in a city that lives and breathes biotech. And when you’re not at the convention, you can enjoy:
- Historic landmarks like the Freedom Trail
- The scenic Boston Harborwalk
- Great seafood at Legal Sea Foods or Row 34
- Cozy neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay
The mix of business and beauty makes it a perfect place to host such a high-impact event.
Insider Tips for First-Time Attendees
- Download the BIO app to organize your schedule and meetings
- Plan ahead — session times fill up quickly
- Don’t skip the Startup Stadium — it’s full of energy and fresh ideas
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes
- Arrive early each day to avoid long lines and find seats at popular sessions
- Bring business cards or a QR code to stay connected after the event
- Explore the city if you can — it’s part of the experience
Final Thoughts
The BIO International Convention isn’t just another industry event — it’s where deals are made, innovations are launched, and the future of biotech is shaped. With thousands of professionals gathering in one place, every hallway, coffee line, and session room is full of opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to grow your business, advance your career, or just get inspired by what’s next in biotech, this is the event you can’t miss.
Ready to register and get all the details? Visit:
https://www.bio.org/events/bio-international-convention