BioFlorida is an organization to support Florida’s life sciences industry, representing a diverse range of sectors including BioPharma. Below, our team shares their 2025 annual BioFlorida Showcase key takeaways. 

The South Florida Life Sciences Showcase, themed “Thriving and Emerging in Florida,” took place on March 19, 2025, bringing together professionals from across the life sciences sector for a dynamic day of networking and industry insights. The event kicked off with breakfast, registration, and opening remarks from key leaders representing BioFlorida, MIA Airport, the Miami-Dade Mayor’s Office, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, and the Miami-Dade Beacon Council. Discussions emphasized South Florida’s expanding role in life sciences innovation and economic growth, setting the stage for a series of engaging panels and presentations. 

Event highlights included the South Florida Commercial Success Panel, moderated by BioFlorida CEO Mark Glickman, featuring insights from industry leaders like Maurice Ferré, MD (INSIGHTEC) and Jason Matuszewski (BioStem Technologies). The “Innovators & Companies to Watch” session, led by Gregory Mario (TAXIS Pharmaceuticals, Inc.), showcased cutting-edge advancements in the field. Attendees also benefited from networking sessions with exhibitors and sponsors such as Fisher Scientific and Conner Strong & Buckelew. A keynote address by Rich Daly, CEO of Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, captivated the audience, followed by a fireside chat on innovation and collaboration featuring Sergey Shukaila (LeverX) and Dr. Yelena Yesha (University of Miami).  

2025 Annual BioFlorida Showcase Key Takeaways 

The event successfully highlighted Florida’s growing life sciences industry and strengthened connections between thought leaders, innovators, and business leaders. Here are some of our takeaways: 

1. Miami International Airport Focuses on Pharma and Medical Equipment 

The Miami International Airport (MIA) is the 1st IATA designated Pharma Hub in North America and a key hub for pharma and medical equipment. By expanding airline capacity for imports and exports, MIA and Miami-Dade have driven consistent year-over-year growth in these sectors. In 2024 alone, the airport handled 16,510 U.S. tons of pharmaceutical cargo, valued at $6.82 billion. Additionally, the area surrounding MIA has been designated a Foreign Trade Zone, a secure, duty-advantaged area akin to international free-trade zones in the U.S. 

2. Workforce Challenges in South Florida for Biotech Companies 

Key industry leaders, including Maurice Ferré from INSIGHTEC and Jason Matuszewski from BioStem Technologies, highlighted the challenge of attracting top talent across mid and upper management, as well as operational roles. One major hurdle is Florida’s perception, not as a Pharma or BioTech hub, but primarily as a tourism and retirement destination, making it more difficult to draw skilled professionals to the region. 

3. Building Awareness to the Local Communities And Universities   

BioTech companies are leveraging local sports teams, such as the Florida Panthers, and university events to attract talent. They also recognize the need for broader marketing initiatives to raise awareness of BioTech career opportunities and retain local talent in South Florida, but this remains a challenge. To address hiring difficulties, many companies are open to remote work models with local participation as needed. However, Florida’s reputation as a tourist and retirement destination continues to make talent acquisition in the sector difficult.  

4. Capital Funding Remains a Large Issue 

Capital funding remains a challenge for BioTech companies in South Florida, with executives continuously seeking solutions to secure financial support. They acknowledge that making a compelling business case for potential investors is no easy task. To attract funding, these companies need assistance in crafting a well-structured business case and navigating the complexities of different funding stages. 

5. Navigating Drug Development and Commercialization Challenges 

BioTech companies face challenges throughout the drug development and commercialization lifecycle, from securing funding to bringing products to market. They also struggle to make a compelling business case for investors, highlighting the need for strategic support in both financial planning and market positioning. 

6. Regulatory Hurdles in South Florida’s BioTech Sector 

BioTech companies in South Florida struggle with regulatory compliance due to a lack of in-house expertise and competitive personnel. Several presenters emphasized the need for support in navigating complex regulations, as many companies face challenges in meeting required standards. 

7. Tapping into Spanish-Speaking and Latin American Markets

South Florida’s geographic position as a gateway to Latin America presents both opportunities and challenges for BioTech companies. Successfully marketing products in this bilingual region requires not only language adaptability but also a deep understanding of diverse Latin cultures to effectively connect with local and international audiences. 

8. Supply Chain Challenges in South Florida’s BioTech Sector

BioTech companies in South Florida face significant supply chain challenges, partly due to the region’s geographic location. Industry leaders highlighted ongoing difficulties in securing reliable logistics and distribution channels, which impact efficiency and operations. 

9. AI for Drug Formulation and Testing

As the BioTech industry seeks more efficient solutions in drug development, innovative technologies like AI are playing a key role. Dr. Yelena Yesha from the University of Miami presented a case where AI is revolutionizing drug formulation and testing for BioTech companies. By leveraging AI, companies are significantly reducing both time and expenses in this critical stage of drug development, with promising results that could transform the industry. 

Final Thoughts 

The 2025 Annual BioFlorida Showcase united industry leaders, innovators, academia, government officials, investors, and key stakeholders in a common forum to find insightful discussions, promote networking, and encourage collaboration within the life sciences industry in South Florida.  

Florida’s bioscience industry is a growing hub of innovation, with major companies like Johnson & Johnson, Bristol-Myers Squibb, and NeoGenomics establishing a strong presence in the state. The state has successfully attracted renowned scientists and developed expertise in key fields such as medical technology, oncology, ophthalmology, and regenerative medicine, addressing critical unmet needs. With breakthrough discoveries and groundbreaking therapies being developed, Florida’s bioscience sector is poised to not only drive industry growth but also improve the quality of life for people across the country. 

If you’re interested in chatting more about any of our takeaways above, please reach out. We’d love to connect. 

Contributions by Arturo Blasi