By Heidi Chokeir, EVP, Scientific & Corporate Communications
Every year, the BIO International Convention brings together leaders from across the global biotechnology ecosystem to explore the ideas, opportunities and challenges shaping the future of our industry. It offers a valuable snapshot of where biotech is headed—and this year, several themes rose to the top. Notably, one of the most important wasn't about science at all.
Here are my top five takeaways from #BIO2026:
1. Trust is biotech's next innovation challenge.
Scientific progress continues at pace, but public confidence has moved in the opposite direction. In today's politically polarized environment, alongside ongoing questions about FDA leadership, regulatory consistency and the role of science in public policy, trust can no longer be assumed.
The industry needs a new communications playbook—one built on trusted voices, authentic dialogue and education that informs rather than persuades. Advancing innovation is only part of the challenge; bringing the public along on that journey is equally essential.
2. AI has become biotech's newest collaborator.
The conversation has evolved from whether AI will transform biotech to how organizations are already using it to accelerate discovery, development and decision-making.
Some of the most compelling discussions weren't led by biopharma companies at all. They came from technology leaders such as Anthropic, reinforcing that the future of drug development will increasingly be shaped through cross-sector collaboration, rather than by biotech alone.
3. Collaboration and competition now go hand in hand.
Walk through the exhibit hall and you'll hear dozens of languages—a powerful reminder that BIO is a truly global gathering and that innovation is happening around the world. That global spirit was on full display as international crowds gathered to watch the World Cup matches together.
At the same time, conversations around China, patent protection, offshore manufacturing, investment and national biotech strategies highlighted intensifying competition to lead the next era of innovation.
The challenge isn't choosing between global collaboration and competitiveness. It's striking the right balance between the two so that patients ultimately benefit.
4. Patients have earned a permanent seat at the table.
Patient centricity is no longer an aspiration—it's an expectation.
From clinical trial design and endpoint selection to evidence generation, access and commercialization, the strongest conversations recognized that patients and caregivers are more than stakeholders to consult. They are strategic partners whose lived experience leads to better science, better decisions and better outcomes.
5. And finally, comfortable shoes prevailed.
Maybe it's because BIO is a marathon, not a sprint. Maybe we've collectively realized that partnering meetings are easier without blisters. Whatever the reason, sneakers officially outnumbered stilettos and stiff-soled shoes.
Somewhere along the way, one of our industry's best innovations wasn't scientific at all—it was making comfort conference chic. And I, for one, fully support this evolution in conference fashion.
What themes stood out to you at BIO 2026?
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