About

BioForward is the collective voice of Wisconsin’s robust and comprehensive biohealth cluster.

Mission

To grow Wisconsin biohealth companies and unite the industry to define the future of healthcare.

BioForward Wisconsin is an action-oriented association, meeting our members’ needs.

Talent & Promotion

BioForward develops initiatives to strengthen the talent pipeline and promote the capabilities of Wisconsin and the surrounding regions on an international stage.

LEARN MORE about talent
LEARN MORE about promotion

advocacy

Legislative advocacy to highlight the economic and social impact of the Wisconsin biohealth industry.

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Collaborations & Partnership

BioForward creates collaborations to develop partnerships and strengthen long-term impact on the biohealth industry and research institutions.

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LEARN MORE about partnerships
Learn about the Tech Hub

events & networking

Educational and networking events to enhance professional development and industry connections.

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History

Founded in 1987 as the Wisconsin Biotechnology Association, BioForward was formed as a partnership among leaders in Wisconsin’s emerging biotechnology industry. The Association joined forces in 2002 with medical device manufacturers and became the Wisconsin Biotechnology and Medical Device Association and later rebranded in 2009 as BioForward. Over time, membership has grown to include key industry sectors across a broad cross-section of biohealth specialties and several key initiatives have been put in place to support members, strengthen the industry, and build community.

As BioForward continues to grow, we seek to expand.

Expand member companies, expand the resources available to members, and expand the influence of the biohealth hub of excellence known as the Biohealth Innovation Territory.

In advancing these goals
We embrace the following tenets:

Impact

The biohealth industry in Wisconsin generates $28.8 billion in direct, indirect, and induced sources, as well as $1 billion in state and local taxes. We’re a massive economic engine.

INNOVATION

Our members are on the frontlines of some of the most pressing global health issues. We’re making a difference.

COLLABORATION

We build the trust, respect, and transparency necessary for effective collaboration. We’re successful together.

VISION

We’re not satisfied with success today – we’re planning for tomorrow. We adapt, advocate and lead.

Meet the Team

The BioForward team is small but mighty, with each member committed to and passionate about supporting, strengthening, and growing the Wisconsin biohealth industry and our members.

Meet the Board

In accordance with its Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation, BioForward is governed by its Board of Directors. The Board Executive Committee consists of the three Elected Officers, the immediate Past Chair, and the CEO of the organization.

Executive Committee

The governing Board of Directors is selected from BioForward member companies. These members are not only an active voice for the organization and industry with their organizations but also participate in the community.

Governing Board

Meet the Partners

The BioForward team collaborates closely with select member companies to provide customized programs and membership support that raise member profiles, enrich innovation and talent efforts, and increase engagement with our active and engaged ecosystem.

Supporting the Biohealth Start-up and Innovation community

Educational Partnerships

Workforce Development

Wisconsin Small Business