Dates
Western Research Parks, in partnership with the London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC), is proud to bring the innovation community together for another edition of the Connector Sessions—offering firsthand insights from seasoned leaders navigating the challenges and opportunities in biotech and MedTech.
We invite you to join us for "Evolving a Biotech/MedTech Startup in Uncertain Times: Real Life Learnings and Successes," featuring keynote speaker Dr. Philip Toleikis. With over 25 years of experience growing life sciences companies from early-stage R&D through to public markets, Philip will share real-world lessons on building, funding, and scaling a biotech venture in today’s complex landscape.
Description:
Drawing from his extensive leadership experience—most notably as President and CEO of Sernova Corp.—Philip will explore the behind-the-scenes realities of growing a biotech company:
✅ The journey from early-stage innovation to a publicly traded company
✅ Fundraising strategies: from non-dilutive grants to equity financing and strategic partnerships
✅ Managing the tension between investor expectations and corporate realities
✅ Lessons in leadership from a founder’s perspective
Whether you're an entrepreneur, academic, researcher, or innovation professional, this session offers valuable takeaways on what it really takes to evolve and sustain a biotech or MedTech company—especially in uncertain times.
Date & Time:
Thursday, May 15, 2025
11:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Location:
Connector Suites, Convergence Centre
Western Research Parks
999 Collip Circle, London, ON
Agenda:
11:30 AM to 12:30 PM – Keynote Presentation by Dr. Philip Toleikis
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM – Networking Lunch (catered by Black Walnut Bakery Cafe)
Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Philip Toleikis – President, PMToleikis & Associates Consulting
Dr. Philip M. Toleikis is the former President, CEO, and CTO of publicly traded Sernova Corp., where he led the company’s transformation into a global leader in regenerative medicine and cell therapy. Over his 14-year tenure, he raised over $100 million in funding and steered the company from early R&D to successful clinical trials and public markets, increasing its market cap from $3M to over $300M. Philip has deep experience in licensing, business development, patent strategy, and corporate governance, and has been a key force behind groundbreaking therapeutic platforms for diabetes, hypothyroidism, and rare diseases. He currently leads PMToleikis & Associates Consulting and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of biotech innovators.
Registration:
Kindly RSVP by May 13, 2025
About the Co-Hosts:
Western Research Parks: Western Research Parks is a dynamic innovation hub bridging the gap between research and industry, offering cutting-edge labs, coworking spaces, and flexible office rentals. Businesses benefit from access to Western University’s research expertise, a diverse talent pool, and a thriving ecosystem of entrepreneurs and established companies.
London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC): The London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) is dedicated to supporting business growth in London. LEDC works with businesses, government, and academic partners to attract new investment, assist with expansions, and foster a thriving economy across key sectors like Agri-Food, Tech, Health, and Manufacturing.
Photography
Please be advised that photographs and video may be taken at Western Research Parks events for use on Western Research Parks' web, print and social properties. We won’t sell your photo, but we may share it with media and/or partner organizations. By attending this and any Western Research Parks event, you consent to being photographed and/or filmed, and to your image or likeness being used at Western Research Parks' discretion.
