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Colorado’s contributions to biotechnology innovation—and biotech’s importance to our health, food supply, and national security—were key themes as BIO President & CEO John F. Crowley met local stakeholders and the media in Denver on Feb. 3 and 4.
“American innovation can change the course of history, whether by advancing our security or conquering a devastating disease. The Colorado biotech industry embodies this dual promise,” Crowley wrote in an article in Westworld published for his visit. “Some 4,000 biotech industry businesses employ about 40,000 workers at well-above-average wages, with ripple effects across the state.”
In a packed two days, Crowley met Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), state lawmakers, CEOs and other industry members, and patients. He also gave a keynote fireside chat for the Colorado BioScience Association’s (CBSA) Feb. 4 “Day at the Capitol,” moderated a panel for patient advocates, toured the facilities at the Fitzsimmons Research Park and the Children’s Hospital, and was interviewed by KOA Morning News radio and local Fox News affiliate KDVR-TV.
It was all part of the first BIO on the American Road (BOTAR), a planned series of trips around the country. BIO will travel to biotech hubs to learn about work being done in biotech around the country and the concerns of the patients and others relying on biotech breakthroughs.
Colorado stands tall
Colorado has an exceptionally lively biotechnology ecosystem, with “billions of dollars of venture capital and research funding coming in and some great treatments and cures being developed right here in Colorado,” Crowley told the local Fox TV News affiliate. “It’s one of the reasons we came here and made this our first stop on BIO on the American Road.”
In his talk on KOA Morning News, he outlined the importance of Colorado’s research institutions.
“You look at the quality of the science coming out of the academic labs. That’s typically the story of biotech: It’s a couple of scientists who have been working for years, toiling on projects” and then seeking investors, he said. “Biotech is a very risky business. We take enormous risks to solve enormous problems.”
Crowley’s opinion piece also noted the strength of Colorado’s research ecosystem and companies.
“Researchers at the University of Colorado are pioneering the use of quantum computing in drug discovery, which could massively increase the speed at which we develop new vaccines and cures,” he wrote. “Other institutions and companies are advancing breakthrough treatments for epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, various cancers and many other conditions.”
And he highlighted how Colorado’s leadership in agricultural biotechnology is advancing food security and sustainability. “Researchers in the state are developing tools to help farmers produce more food while using fewer pesticides and less water,” Crowley wrote.
Importance of policy
Throughout his trip, Crowley discussed the important work BIO and CBSA do to impact policy that can support biotech.
Moderating a panel with patient advocates that was organized by CBSA, Crowley led an interactive discussion of how these groups can help ensure Colorado patients can access their medicines. Particular challenges covered included Colorado’s Prescription Drug Affordability Review Board, which seeks to control the price of drugs in the state, and misuse of the 340B program meant to assist patients in underserved neighborhoods.
Crowley also highlighted a beneficial Colorado policy to support biotech.
“For example, last year Colorado started offering tax incentives to research and invest in sustainable aviation fuels,” he said, noting that these fuels strengthen and diversify our sustainable energy supply.
And he underscored the work of Colorado’s federal legislators in seeking reform that helps the entire country.
“Representative Diana DeGette helped craft and pass the bipartisan 21st Century Cures Act to speed up drug development and fund new treatments; she is looking to build on this successful effort in the new Congress,” Crowley said. The 21st Century Cures Act has been praised by patient groups and others for encouraging “patient-focused drug development” and embodying a government commitment to bring innovative medicines to patients.
Another federal legislator from Colorado that Crowley mentioned was Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO), who is “spurring much-needed advances in antimicrobial development.”
As Crowley noted throughout the trip, policies that enable America’s continued biotech leadership are immensely important.
He told the radio news: “Lawmakers need to care about biotechnology for the public health, as an engine of economic growth, and for national security.”
Listen to BIO President & CEO John F. Crowley’s radio interview on KOA Morning News.
