Overview of the Controlled Release Society (CRS) Annual Meeting & Expo
The Controlled Release Society (CRS) Annual Meeting & Expo is one of the most prestigious global events in the field of delivery science and technology. It brings together a dynamic community of scientists, researchers, industry professionals, and regulatory experts who are deeply engaged in advancing the science of controlled release and drug delivery. This conference serves as a vital platform to share research, discuss innovations, build partnerships, and explore future trends in controlled release technologies across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, agriculture, cosmetics, and other industries.

Event venue, date and timing
The CRS Annual Meeting & Expo 2025 is set to take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, a city well-equipped with world-class infrastructure and known for its thriving healthcare and life sciences ecosystem. The official venue for the event is the Minneapolis Convention Center, located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis.

• Dates: July 21–24, 2025
• Venue: Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA
• Timings: Conference sessions typically begin around 8:00 AM and extend into the early evening, with some networking and social events continuing after official hours.

Who should attend
The CRS Annual Meeting & Expo is ideal for:

• Academic researchers and PhD scholars in pharmaceutical sciences
• Industry professionals in R&D, formulation, and regulatory affairs
• Product developers and formulation scientists
• Venture capitalists and biotech startups
• Regulatory authorities and consultants
• Students and early-career scientists interested in delivery science

Product categories and focus areas
This highly specialized conference explores innovations in the following categories:

• Drug Delivery and Controlled Release Systems
• Nanomedicine and Targeted Delivery
• Gene Therapy and Nucleic Acid Delivery
• Biologics and Biosimilars
• Veterinary and Animal Health Technologies
• Agricultural Formulations
• Cosmetic and Personal Care Delivery Systems
• Medical Devices and Diagnostic Tools

Exhibitor and visitor statistics
The CRS Annual Meeting attracts over 1,300–1,800 attendees annually from more than 40 countries. The exhibitor floor features approximately 100+ exhibitors representing top-tier biotech and pharma companies, formulation suppliers, CROs, CDMOs, device developers, and academic spin-offs.
It offers an exceptional opportunity to interact directly with experts, discover new products, forge collaborations, and attend interactive technical sessions and scientific poster presentations.

Benefits of attending the CRS Annual Meeting & Expo
Attending this event offers numerous advantages:

• Access to cutting-edge science and data through keynote sessions, workshops, and oral presentations
• Networking opportunities with global leaders in delivery science, regulatory affairs, academia, and industry
• Exposure to emerging technologies in drug formulation and product development
• Career development workshops for students and early-career professionals
• Product and solution discovery in the exhibit hall
• One-on-one partnering opportunities for business development and investment

Cost of participation
The registration fees for CRS 2025 vary based on attendee category and time of registration.

• Early-bird pricing (anticipated to open in March 2025) may range from:
  • Students: USD 300–450
  • Academic/Government: USD 600–750
  • Industry Professionals: USD 900–1200
• Onsite or late registration tends to be higher. Additional costs may apply for short courses, satellite sessions, or networking events.

Nearby accommodation and stay options
Minneapolis offers a wide range of hotels located near the Convention Center. Here are a few convenient and popular lodging options:

• Hilton Minneapolis (directly connected to the Convention Center via Skyway)
• Hyatt Regency Minneapolis (just two blocks away)
• The Marquette Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Millennium Hotel Minneapolis
• Loews Minneapolis Hotel (for upscale business-class accommodation)

Most of these hotels are within walking distance and provide easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment districts. Early booking is recommended as accommodations tend to fill up quickly during major conferences.

Transport and accessibility
The venue is easily accessible from Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), just about 20 minutes by car. Public transit options including Metro Blue Line and city bus services are available. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft also operate widely in the area.

Perks and special features of the CRS Annual Meeting

• Poster presentation competitions with awards for best scientific posters
• Mentoring programs that pair young professionals with senior researchers
• Social receptions and gala dinners for informal networking
• Dedicated innovation theater on the exhibit floor for quick product showcases
• On-demand access to recorded sessions post-event for registered participants

Important tips for attendees

• Plan to arrive a day early to get familiar with the venue and city.
• Bring plenty of business cards for networking.
• Review the agenda in advance to prioritize your sessions.
• Attend satellite symposia to gain deeper insights on niche topics.
• Take advantage of mobile app access for navigating the show, bookmarking sessions, and connecting with fellow attendees.

Why Minneapolis is the ideal host city
Minneapolis is known for its high quality of life, clean and green spaces, and an educated population with a strong interest in healthcare and science. The city features a vibrant arts and culture scene, diverse restaurants, and easy walkability. It is also home to top healthcare companies and research institutions, making it a fitting location for a conference of this caliber.

How to prepare for the CRS Annual Meeting & Expo
If you’re planning to attend, consider the following preparation steps:

• Register early to save on fees
• Book accommodation close to the Convention Center
• Download the CRS Meeting app once released
• Prepare an abstract or poster if you wish to present
• Keep track of travel restrictions or visa requirements, if applicable