Who We Are
BioNova is Nova Scotia’s life sciences association, representing the more than 3,400 men and women working in the province’s life sciences community. Our members include innovative life sciences companies, universities, hospitals, research institutions, government agencies, suppliers, students and individuals who are committed to the vitality of the life sciences industry.
Since our incorporation in 1993, BioNova has worked alongside our members to lead in the growth of Nova Scotia’s life sciences capabilities. Our office is located in Halifax, close to many of our members and provincial policy makers. With the guidance of a dedicated Board of Directors and a professional staff, BioNova provides leadership and support for our members while advocating for the continued development of life sciences in Nova Scotia.
A complete listing of our members can be found in our Member Directory.
What We Do
BioNova serves its members by providing:
Leadership
BioNova presents a unified voice for Nova Scotia’s life sciences community. On behalf of our members, we take a lead role in projects that benefit them, on issues that impact them and on promotion of their capabilities.
Advocacy
BioNova recognizes the life sciences community’s need for a strong voice at the provincial and national levels. As part of our advocacy initiatives, we have created strategic alliances with government departments and agencies. We have joined forces with BioAtlantech (New Brunswick), NATI (Newfoundland & Labrador) and the PEI BioAlliance to form the Atlantic Canada Bio-Industries Alliance (ACBA), to organize a pan-Atlantic approach to responding to issues as well as promoting the growth of the sector. As well, we work with organizations such as BIOTECanada, the Biotech Accord, BioTalent Canada and Rx&D for the advancement of life sciences across the country.
Communication
BioNova acts as a single source by which our members, political leaders, the media, and the larger life sciences community can obtain accurate and reliable information. An up-to-date website, positive relationships with the news media, online newsletters and Twitter are just a few of the communication vehicles we use to interact with important stakeholders. We gather, develop and disseminate information that will demonstrate to key audiences the innovative work being carried out by our members and the entire life sciences industry.
Networking
BioNova understands the importance of peer-to-peer relationships and ensures networking opportunities are available to our members – both locally through meetings, events and information sessions, and on a national and international level through conferences and trade shows. BioPort Atlantic, our annual conference, is one example of how we create opportunities for our members to come together to learn from guest speakers and each other.
Education
BioNova assists its members by offering educational sessions and workshops on a variety of important topics such as regulatory challenges and access to investment capital. We also work to encourage careers in life sciences at both the high school and university levels by spearheading initiatives like the Sanofi- Aventis BioTalent Challenge (SABC). In addition, we take every opportunity to educate policy makers and the public about our industry and the potential benefits it can bring, not only to Nova Scotians and Canadians, but also to the entire world. BioNova provides a unified voice for Nova Scotia’s life sciences community. In representing the interests of our members, we take a leadership role on projects such as conducting an inventory of industry assets and developing a Roadmap to help guide future industry initiatives and growth.
