IndieBio: How can the US be globally competitive in bio-manufacturing
About This Event
While the U.S. leads in bio-innovation, translating breakthrough science into scalable manufacturing remains our biggest competitive gap. From nutritional proteins to new materials to cell therapies, mastering bio-manufacturing at scale will dominate the next trillion-dollar economy—but winning doesn't mean going it alone.
This conversation explores how strategic international partnerships can accelerate American bio-manufacturing leadership without compromising competitive advantage. Expect practical insights on when to compete, when to collaborate, and how to leverage America's unique strengths in an interconnected bio-economy.
Panelists:
Maximilian Von Poelnitz: Managing Director, Ajinomoto CVC
Doug Friedman: CEO, BioMADE
Po Bronson: Managing Director of IndieBio, GP at SOSV
Speakers
Doug Friedman
CEO · BioMADE
panelistDoug Friedman serves as the CEO of BioMADE, an organization focused on advancing bioindustrial manufacturing and innovation in the United States. With a background in biotechnology, he leads efforts to support the development of sustainable manufacturing practices in the bioeconomy. His role involves fostering collaborations between industry, academia, and government to accelerate bio-based technologies.
Maximilian Von Poelnitz
Managing Director · Ajinomoto CVC
panelistMaximilian Von Poelnitz serves as the Managing Director at Ajinomoto CVC, where he oversees venture capital investments, likely focusing on innovative technologies in the life sciences sector. His participation in events such as Biomanufacturing in the US highlights his expertise in biomanufacturing and related fields. Through his role, he contributes to advancing biotechnology initiatives aligned with Ajinomoto's strengths in biochemical and food-related innovations.
Po Bronson
Managing Director of IndieBio, GP at SOSV · IndieBio, SOSV
panelistPo Bronson is a best-selling author and journalist known for books on science and personal development, who has transitioned into venture capital as the Managing Director of IndieBio and a General Partner at SOSV, focusing on early-stage biotech innovations.
