Governor Branstad Presents at 2016 BIO International Convention

Press Release

Governor Terry E. Branstad is attending the Biotechnology Innovation Organization's (BIO) International Convention in San Francisco, CA this week. The convention is expected to attract over 15,000 biotechnology and pharma leaders from over 60 countries who come together annually for one week of intensive networking to discover new opportunities and promising partnerships.

Iowa is home to a diverse range of bioscience industries that incorporate agbiosciences, traditional biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, biofuels, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and various other sectors. Today, approximately 1,250 entities are working to commercialize Iowa's bioscience innovations.

"This is a great year to attend BIO. Iowa is the proud home to many leaders in the bioscience industry," said Governor Branstad. "The BIO International Convention is the perfect forum to promote our strategic advantages in this sector and show the world that Iowa's robust and thriving biosciences industry is the epicenter for growth and opportunity."

In addition to promoting Iowa's biosciences industry, the Governor will take the opportunity to tout the creation of Iowa's first in the nation Renewable Chemical Production Tax Credit program that was passed into law this past legislation session with bipartisan support. "Iowa is the nation's premier leader in the industrial biotech sector and the production of biochemicals is perhaps one of the fastest growing segments. I look forward to highlighting how Iowa is at the forefront of this dynamic industry," said Governor Branstad.

Governor Branstad is attending the conference on Tuesday, June 7 and will participate in a number of official BIO events including The BIO State Initiatives Report 2016: The Impact of the Biosciences in State Economic Vitality session. His delegation includes Iowa Economic Development Authority director Debi Durham, representatives from IowaBio and economic development leaders representing communities statewide.

"The governor's participation at BIO will not only draw attention to the strength of the industry in Iowa, but also demonstrate the state's commitment to support and grow companies from startups to globally-recognized companies such as DuPont and POET," said Director Durham. "The Governor's presence at BIO is an indication of how important the industry is to this administration, and its dedication to ensuring that this industry continues to flourish in Iowa for years to come."

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