Catalonia and North Carolina connect two leading life sciences ecosystems

Catalonia and North Carolina strengthened collaboration in life sciences during the Catalonia-North Carolina Life Sciences Exchange at Research Triangle Park (NC), fostering new partnerships in biotech, digital health, and international innovation.

Organized to ignite international collaboration between two globally competitive ecosystems, the event brought together companies, institutions, and innovation leaders from both regions to explore new business opportunities, strategic partnerships, and investment synergies in the life sciences sector.

The exchange opened with remarks from Melissa McGurk, Senior International Trade Manager at the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

Representatives from Catalonia and North Carolina then presented snapshots of their respective life sciences ecosystems, highlighting strengths in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, digital health, and medical technologies, as well as opportunities for international collaboration. The session featured Christian Brown, Director of Economic Development at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, and Sílvia Labé, Marketing Director from Biocat.

International companies showcase transatlantic collaboration

A panel discussion focused on the growing synergies between both ecosystems was moderated by Marcos Gonzalez, Director of the Catalonia Trade & Investment office in Miami. The panel brought together representatives from Catalonia-based Grifols and North Carolina-based IQVIA, two companies that exemplify the strong transatlantic connections between the regions.

Panelists included Vlasta Hakes, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs at Grifols, alongside Rachel Fones, Senior Director Government & Public Affairs and Strategic Advisor at IQVIA, and John Ward, Prime Site Director at IQVIA Spain.

The event also featured company spotlights from Catalan and North Carolina firms presenting their technologies, capabilities, and international collaboration goals. Catalan participants included HIPRA, Better Care, NIMBLE Diagnostics, Basetis Health and several other innovative companies from the Catalan health ecosystem.

North Carolina companies participating included Alphanumeric Systems, Northway Biotech and DMC Biotechnologies, among others.

Next steps: BIO International Convention in San Diego

Following the exchange, representatives from Catalonia Trade & Investment held a working meeting at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center to deepen collaboration and advance the relationship between both life sciences ecosystems into a second phase.

The next milestone for this growing partnership will take place during the upcoming BIO International Convention 2026 in San Diego this June, where delegations from Catalonia and North Carolina are expected to continue exploring joint opportunities in one of the world’s leading life sciences gatherings.

Catalonia is currently one of Europe’s most dynamic life sciences and healthcare hubs, home to more than 1,500 companies and a strong network of hospitals, research centers, startups, and multinational corporations. Events such as the North Carolina Life Sciences Exchange further reinforce Catalonia’s international positioning as a gateway for global innovation, investment, and strategic partnerships in Southern Europe.