Biotech VCs Unplugged: What Investors Really Want to Fund in 2026
After several brutal years for biotech financing, signs of life are finally returning to the market. The biotech IPO window has finally creaked open. Cash-rich pharma has increased the pace of M&A activity. And biotech VCs are beginning to get more active. Yet it remains an extraordinarily difficult environment for emerging biotech companies. Capital is highly selective, investors are taking fewer swings, and the bar for each new investment has risen substantially.
This panel brings together leading biotech investors for a candid, behind-the-scenes discussion on how investors are actually making decisions in 2026. The conversation will explore what sectors are attracting attention, what has become significantly harder to finance, how firms build conviction around new opportunities, and how broader market dynamics — including the rise of China-originated assets and growing pressure around capital efficiency — are reshaping today’s biotech funding landscape.
Designed for life science founders, executives, scientists, operators, and aspiring entrepreneurs, the panel aims to provide an unvarnished look at what biotech VCs are really discussing behind closed doors today.
Panelists
Michael Fen, IASO Ventures
Jill Goldstein, Vida Ventures
Alex Hogenhuis, Banyan BioInnovations
David Zhu, Kendall Capital Partners
Agenda
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Coffee, Networking, and Breakfast Reception
Hosted by Labshares, Leader Bank, and Byte51
Attendees arrive for informal networking with founders, scientists, investors, biotech operators, and ecosystem partners. Light breakfast and coffee served.
10:00 AM – 10:05 AM
Welcome Remarks
Philip Borden, CEO, Labshares
Brief introduction and thank yous.
10:05 AM – 10:15 AM
State of the Biotech Funding Market
Data from Matt Gibbs, Founder, Byte51
A data-driven overview of current biotech financing trends, including venture activity, IPOs, M&A, company formation, and emerging investment themes shaping the market in 2026.
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Panel Discussion
Biotech VCs Unplugged: What Investors Really Want to Fund in 2026
Moderated by Philip Borden, CEO, Labshares
A candid discussion with leading biotech investors on today’s funding environment, what sectors are generating conviction, how firms are evaluating risk, and what founders should understand about the realities of biotech fundraising in 2026.
11:15 AM – 12:00 PM
Networking and Labshares Facility Tours
Additional networking with attendees, panelists, and sponsors, along with optional tours of the Labshares facility.
Free parking in the garage at 66 Galen St. The entrance is on Water St.