Industry Events – BioCrossroads

ARCS Foundation Expands National Scholar Award Program to Indiana

Indiana’s life sciences ecosystem is built around a rare combination of strengths: global companies, research universities, innovation districts, manufacturing scale, logistics infrastructure, and a statewide network of partners working across human health, animal health, and plant science.

Now, a national scholarship program focused on advancing scientific talent is expanding into that ecosystem.

ARCS Foundation will host the ARCS National Scholar Award Inaugural Ceremony on September 2, 2026, at the Purdue University Memorial Union in West Lafayette, to introduce Indiana leaders to the ARCS National Scholar Award Program and its new partnership with Purdue University. The event will also give ARCS Foundation an opportunity to learn more about Indiana’s life sciences economy and the industry partners whose work is helping shape the future of health, research, technology, and manufacturing.

The Purdue partnership marks the first expansion of the ARCS National Scholar Award Program into Indiana. Through the agreement, ARCS will provide ongoing private, unrestricted funding for Purdue doctoral students conducting research in high impact and emerging technology fields. Initial support will focus on biomedical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and mechanical engineering.

That connection matters for Indiana.

Across the state, life sciences companies and research institutions are advancing work in pharmaceuticals, medical technology, diagnostics, animal health, plant science, manufacturing, logistics, data, and next generation technologies. Purdue’s role in the ARCS National Scholar Award Program adds another point of connection between graduate research, industry need, and long-term talent development.

ARCS Foundation has supported scientific talent for more than 65 years by providing financial awards to academically outstanding U.S. citizens pursuing graduate degrees in science, engineering, math, technology, and medical research. The National Scholar Award Program was created to expand ARCS support into regions not currently served by ARCS chapters and to invest in scientific fields important to U.S. competitiveness.

For Indiana, the opportunity is both immediate and long term.

The event will introduce industry leaders to a national model for supporting doctoral scholars while giving ARCS Foundation a closer look at the companies, institutions, and innovation assets that make Indiana a leading life sciences state. It is also a chance to begin building the relationships needed to grow scholarship support in Indiana over time.

Private, unrestricted support gives scholars the flexibility to stay focused on research, pursue promising ideas, and continue work that may one day contribute to new discoveries, technologies, companies, and solutions. For industry partners, that kind of investment strengthens the research and talent pipeline that helps Indiana compete.

As ARCS Foundation begins its work in Indiana, BioCrossroads encourages life sciences leaders, employers, investors, and philanthropic partners to attend, learn more, and help connect the program to the broader ecosystem.

Indiana has the industry base. Purdue brings world-class research strength. ARCS brings a national model for investing in scientific talent. Together, they create a new opportunity to support the next generation of researchers whose work can help move Indiana’s life sciences economy forward.

Support scientific talent in Indiana

Companies and philanthropic partners interested in supporting ARCS scholars in Indiana can learn more at the event and begin exploring how private support can help strengthen Indiana’s research, innovation, and life sciences talent pipeline.

Contact:

Nancy Chambers

ARCS Foundation National Board of Directors

Chair, ARCS National Scholar Program

nchambers@arcsfoundation.org

404.593.4474

Attend the ARCS Foundation event

Industry leaders, employers, investors, academic partners, and philanthropic organizations are invited to attend the ARCS National Scholar Award Inaugural Ceremony to learn more about ARCS Foundation, the National Scholar Award Program, and the program’s first Indiana partnership with Purdue University.

Event: ARCS National Scholar Award Inaugural Ceremony
Date: September 2, 2026
Time: 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Location: Purdue University Memorial Union
Hosted by: ARCS Foundation
Registration: Scan the QR code to the right or click the button below.

bio international convention 2026

Highlights from the Indiana Pavilion

Indiana returned to BIO International with a coordinated statewide presence for the first time in six years, bringing together companies, universities, innovation districts and industry partners inside the Indiana Pavilion.

Across four days at Booth 3143, BioCrossroads helped lead conversations focused on the full arc of Indiana’s bioscience economy. Partners discussed how innovation districts are creating places for collaboration, how research institutions and industry anchors are moving discoveries toward commercial impact, and how Indiana’s manufacturing, logistics, and workforce assets support companies building and scaling in the state.

The week also marked the national introduction of BioHeartland Indiana, giving partners a shared platform to tell a more unified story about the state’s strengths across human health, animal health and plant science.

Explore the photo gallery, partner highlights, and on-site interviews from BIO International 2026.

Partners at BIO 2026

Indiana’s presence at BIO International 2026 was shaped by partners working across the full bioscience economy, from research and commercialization to innovation districts, manufacturing, logistics, workforce development and business growth. At Booth 3143, that meant more than representing individual organizations. Together, Indiana Pavilion partners showed how the state’s bioscience ecosystem works in practice.

BioCrossroads is grateful to each partner who helped bring Indiana’s bioscience story to BIO International and helped introduce BioHeartland Indiana to a national audience.

Discover
BioHeartland Indiana

BioHeartland Indiana is the shared identity for Indiana’s statewide bioscience ecosystem, connecting strengths across human health, animal health and plant science.

See how companies, universities, research institutions, innovation districts and industry partners are connected across the state.

New regional identity unites a more than $100 billion bioscience ecosystem and positions Indiana among the world's leading innovation hubs.

INDIANAPOLIS, June 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today at BIO International Convention in San Diego, the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership announced the bioscience sector across Indiana will now be known as “BioHeartland Indiana.”

For more than a century, Indiana’s life sciences ecosystem has been inventing, making and moving bioscience solutions at global scale across human health, animal health and plant science. The state’s leading role in the GLP-1 revolution is a tangible example of what’s possible when discovery, research, development, manufacturing and distribution exist within a single connected ecosystem.

With Eli Lilly, Elanco Animal Health, and Corteva, the region is home to global leaders in human health, animal health, and plant science. The state’s four R1 universities, the nation’s largest medical school, and the Indiana Bioscience Research Institute, combined with the industry researchers, serve to generate 3x the national average for issued patents. The biosciences sector contributes over $100B of economic activity to the state.

“Indiana is a powerhouse in human, animal and plant biosciences, but our story has not been told with the clarity, consistency or urgency it deserves,” said Melina Kennedy, CEO of the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership. “What makes this region different is not just that we make bioscience solutions, we are also a hotbed of invention and discovery, with the manufacturing strength, logistics infrastructure and collaborative spirit to move innovations into the world. BioHeartland gives us a shared identity to help investors, companies and talent understand the full value of what Indiana offers.”

The announcement follows Governor Mike Braun’s $1 billion commitment to help Indiana’s life sciences companies accelerate growth over the next ten years.

“People will hear the words ‘BioHeartland Indiana’ and automatically think, “that’s a place open for science and innovation where industry professionals across the entire value chain deliver solutions in a practical, collaborative way, enabling companies to move with speed from lab to market,” said Vince Wong, president and CEO of BioCrossroads, a non-profit organization that grows, advances, and invests in Indiana’s life sciences and healthcare sectors. “When it comes to biosciences, people will think of Indiana the same as Boston, the Research Triangle of North Carolina, or even international locations like Zurich and Basel.”

Indiana’s bioscience industry currently generates more than $125 billion in annual economic impact and leads the nation in both life sciences and pharmaceutical exports.

BIO International Convention

Fifteen BioHeartland Indiana partners are attending BIO International including: Eli Lily and Company, Elanco Animal Health, 16 Tech Innovation District, One Health Innovation District, Genezen, Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub powered by the Applied Research Institute, Indiana Biosciences Research Institute, Indiana Economic Development Corporation, IU Launch Accelerator for Biosciences, Indiana Life Sciences Association, Indy Partnership, Langham Logistics and Purdue University. BioCrossroads is leading BioHeartland Indiana’s presence at BIO International Convention.

BioHeartland Indiana is located at Booth 3134 and will host a series of in-booth conversations designed to give BIO attendees a closer look at the people, places and capabilities behind Indiana’s life sciences momentum. A schedule of events and details about BioHeartland’s presence at BIO International can be found on the organization’s website.

About BioHeartland Indiana
BioHeartland Indiana is a shared identity led by the CEOs of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), in collaboration with its branded initiatives, BioCrossroads and AgriNovus Indiana, and in partnership with the Central Indiana Regional Development Authority (CIRDA). It exists to amplify Indiana’s bioscience strengths, while elevating the innovation districts, companies and research centers inventing, making and moving a rare concentration of life-changing innovation across human, animal and plant health at global scale. Learn more at INBioHeartland.com.

About CICP
The CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP) was formed in 1999 (under its legal name, Central Indiana Corporate Partnership) to bring together the chief executives of the region’s prominent corporations, foundations and universities in a strategic and collaborative effort dedicated to Indiana’s continued prosperity and growth. To advance this objective, CICP sponsors five key talent and industry sector initiatives, AgriNovus Indiana, Ascend Indiana, BioCrossroads, Conexus Indiana, and TechPoint, each of which addresses challenges and opportunities unique to its respective area: agbiosciences, talent and workforce development, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and logistics, and technology. To learn more about CICP, visit cicpindiana.com.

About AgriNovus Indiana
AgriNovus Indiana, a branded initiative of the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing the agbioscience sector by connecting and convening stakeholders to deliver innovative ways to inspire and attract agbiosciences talent, companies and innovation to the state. Learn more at www.AgriNovusIndiana.com.

About BioCrossroads
An initiative of the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), BioCrossroads is a catalyst for Indiana’s life sciences sector, advancing the state’s position as a global leader in research, development, manufacturing, and healthcare innovation. Through strategic initiatives, industry partnerships, and ecosystem development, BioCrossroads supports the growth of life sciences companies, talent, and investment, as well as existing enterprises and new business development across Indiana. The initiative fosters public-private collaboration by uniting a diverse range of academic, industry, and philanthropic stakeholders, all collectively focused on advancing Indiana’s life sciences sector. To learn more about BioCrossroads, visit biocrossroads.com.

Media Contact:
Joe Morgan
Sōvyn
[email protected]

SOURCE BioHeartland Indiana

IBJ BioFutures 2026 spotlights Indiana’s life sciences momentum

Indiana’s life sciences story is one of discovery, production, talent, investment, and impact. The 2026 edition of IBJ BioFutures offers a closer look at that story and the people, companies, institutions, and ideas helping shape what comes next.

Published by the Indianapolis Business Journal, BioFutures highlights the breadth of Indiana’s life sciences sector and the role it plays in advancing health, strengthening the economy, and positioning the state for continued growth. This year’s issue explores themes that are central to Indiana’s life sciences leadership, from pediatric innovation and national health security to the sector’s broader contribution to jobs, investment, and well-being.

For BioCrossroads, the publication reflects the story we see across the ecosystem every day: Indiana is a place where research, manufacturing, logistics, workforce development, and industry collaboration come together in ways that create real opportunity. The state’s life sciences sector is not defined by a single company, campus, or region. It is a connected statewide ecosystem with global companies, emerging startups, research universities, innovation districts, hospitals, service providers, and workforce partners all contributing to its strength.

That connection is what makes Indiana’s life sciences sector distinctive. Ideas can move from the lab to commercialization. Products can be made, scaled, and shipped. Talent can find pathways into high-impact careers. Companies can grow in an environment built around collaboration, infrastructure, and long-term sector focus.

BioFutures also arrives at an important moment for Indiana. As the state continues to elevate its life sciences identity through BioHeartland, the publication helps bring visibility to the industries and institutions driving progress across human health, animal health and plant science. It gives readers a clear view of why Indiana matters in the global life sciences economy and why the work happening here has an impact far beyond the state’s borders.

BioHeartland at BIO International 2026

As Indiana’s biosciences ecosystem continues to expand and become more connected across research, commercialization, manufacturing, logistics, and talent, BioCrossroads will lead a coordinated state presence at BIO International 2026 to show how that momentum is taking shape across BioHeartland.

Indiana sits at the intersection of human health, animal health, and plant science. The state is home to a rare concentration of expertise where breakthrough science creates real-world impact. Over the past six years, that foundation has evolved from a series of individual assets into a connected, statewide bioscience ecosystem now unified under a single identity, BioHeartland.

Today, Indiana’s bioscience industry generates more than $125 billion in direct economic impact statewide and since 2024, has been leading the nation in both life sciences and pharmaceutical exports.

Innovation districts are bringing companies, universities, researchers, and entrepreneurs into the same orbit. Research institutions have put more focus behind commercialization. Companies have expanded across discovery, manufacturing, and logistics. Talent programs have grown to meet the needs of an industry scaling quickly.

From June 22-25, BioCrossroads will lead a statewide presence at BIO International 2026 that shows how that momentum is taking shape across BioHeartland.

The Indiana Pavilion will bring together the bioscience companies, universities, innovation districts, and ecosystem partners that reflect the full strength of BioHeartland, from discovery and commercialization to advanced manufacturing, specialized logistics, talent, and global industry leadership.

Together, these partners show how Indiana’s bioscience ecosystem works in practice, connecting the people, places, and capabilities that help companies discover, develop, manufacture, and deliver what comes next across human health, animal health, and plant science.

Meet the partners bringing the BioHeartland to BIO

16 Tech Innovation District
16 Tech is one of Indiana’s key innovation districts, bringing together companies, researchers, entrepreneurs, and partners in a place designed to make collaboration easier and more productive.

Elanco and One Health Innovation District
Elanco’s global headquarters anchors the One Health Innovation District, a platform for collaboration across human, animal, plant, and environmental health.

Eli Lilly and Company
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Lilly brings global life sciences leadership and a long-standing Indiana presence across discovery, development, and manufacturing.

Genezen
Based in Fishers, Genezen supports viral vector development and manufacturing for cell and gene therapy companies, representing Indiana’s growing strength in advanced therapies.

Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub Powered by the Applied Research Institute
Heartland BioWorks is strengthening Indiana’s biomanufacturing ecosystem by connecting industry, research institutions and government partners around next-generation biotechnology, workforce development, and pathways that help prepare talent for highly technical roles..

Indiana Biosciences Research Institute (IBRI)
IBRI connects academic, clinical, and industry partners around major health challenges, with research focused on areas including metabolic disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and pediatric rare diseases.

Indiana Economic Development Corporation
IEDC supports Indiana’s statewide economic development strategy, helping companies understand the opportunities, resources, and partnerships available to grow in the state.

IU Launch Accelerator for Biosciences (IU LAB)
Established by Indiana University and under development at 16 Tech Innovation District, IU LAB is focused on advancing biosciences entrepreneurship, industry partnerships, talent development, and university-connected commercialization.

Indiana Life Sciences Association
Indiana Life Sciences Association is the state’s life sciences trade association, connecting, promoting and advocating for organizations across Indiana’s life sciences industry and helping companies access the relationships, resources and policy support needed to grow.

Indy Partnership
Indy Partnership supports business growth and attraction across the Indianapolis region, helping connect companies with the regional assets, partners, and opportunities that support life sciences growth.

Langham Logistics
Langham Logistics brings specialized supply chain and cold-chain expertise to the pavilion, including a major pharmaceutical cold-chain facility in Plainfield.

Purdue University
Purdue brings deep research and commercialization strengths across human health, animal health, plant science, agriculture, engineering, and entrepreneurship.

Conversations at the Indiana Pavilion

Throughout the week, BioCrossroads will host a series of in booth conversations designed to give BIO attendees a closer look at the people, places, and capabilities behind Indiana’s life sciences momentum.

Monday, June 22

“Indiana’s Innovation Districts: Meet the Life Sciences Hubs”

Featuring leaders from One Health Innovation District, 16 Tech Innovation District, and BioHeartland. The conversation will explore how Indiana’s innovation districts are connecting researchers, companies, manufacturers and investors to build one of the country’s most dynamic life sciences ecosystems.

Tuesday, June 23

“From Discovery to Market: Indiana’s Innovation Story”

Bringing together leaders from the Indiana Biosciences Research Institute, Purdue University, and Lilly to discuss how Indiana’s research institutions are turning scientific strength into commercial impact. The conversation will focus on what makes Indiana one of the most productive innovation ecosystems in the country and what is coming next.

Wednesday, June 24

“#1 in Pharma Exports: Indiana’s Manufacturing Advantage”

Spotlighting Genezen, Heartland BioWorks, and Langham Logistics, three organizations working on the front lines of Indiana’s manufacturing, workforce and supply chain capabilities. The discussion will go behind the numbers to explore what Indiana’s manufacturing ecosystem looks like on the ground and what it means for companies looking to build and scale in Indiana.

Connect with Indiana at BIO

For those attending BIO International, the Indiana Pavillion will offer a direct look at the companies, institutions, and partners helping shape one of the country’s most active bioscience economies.

Inside Booth 3143, attendees will find partners working across the full life sciences value chain, from research and commercialization to innovation districts, advanced manufacturing, specialized logistics, workforce development, and business growth. Together, they reflect how Indiana’s strengths are becoming more connected and how the state is supporting life sciences companies at every stage of growth.

BioCrossroads will help bring that story forward in San Diego, connecting companies, investors, researchers, and partners with the people and places shaping what comes next for Indiana’s life sciences ecosystem.

Visit BioCrossroads and Indiana’s bioscience ecosystem partners at Booth 3143 at BIO International 2026 in San Diego.

Learn more at INBioHeartland.com.

Winners highlight the people, companies and partnerships driving Indiana’s tech growth

INDIANAPOLIS (April 24, 2026) — TechPoint, the industry-led growth initiative for Indiana’s digital innovation economy, tonight announced the winners of the 2026 Mira Awards, known as the “Oscars of Indiana Tech.”

TechPoint presented 17 awards at Friday night’s celebration, selecting winners from a slate of 106 finalists. A team of independent judges evaluated each finalist following live presentations. In total, TechPoint received 231 submissions for this year’s awards. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation and Google are the presenting sponsors of the Mira Awards.

“The 2026 Mira Award winners directly reflect the key role that technology now plays across every sector of Indiana’s economy,” said Eric Christopher, president and CEO of TechPoint. “From startups to established companies, their innovation, collaboration and true grit are driving productivity, supporting entrepreneurs, and strengthening communities statewide, while setting the pace for what comes next.”

Since 1999, the Mira Awards have celebrated Indiana’s top technology innovators, disruptors, business leaders, and game-changers. The awards showcase the state’s most advanced achievements across multiple industries and highlight the spirit of innovation that defines Indiana’s digital economy. With tonight’s awards, only 386 Mira Awards have been presented, selected from thousands of nominations.

“The achievements of this year’s winners reflect how central technology has become to Indiana’s economic growth and prosperity,” said Melina Kennedy, CEO of the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership. “The alignment of talent, industry, and innovation is strengthening key industries, expanding opportunity in every region of our state, and building momentum for the future.”

The 2026 Mira Award winners are:

AgriNovus Indiana AgBioscience Innovation Award: FiberX (Merrillville)
FiberX earned top recognition for its breakthrough approach to replacing traditional polymers and forever chemicals with high-performance, plant-based alternatives. The company transforms agricultural byproducts into sustainable fiber materials designed for use across industries, including packaging, textiles, and consumer goods. Judges praised the company’s strong research partnerships, deep industry traction, and meaningful environmental impact, reducing agricultural waste while maintaining quality and cost competitiveness. With the potential to transform multiple markets, FiberX stands out as a powerful example of Indiana-rooted innovation shaping the future of sustainable materials.

AnalytiXIN AI Transformation Award: Indiana University (Bloomington)
Indiana University earned the AI Transformation Award for its institution-wide, strategic rollout of generative AI, which includes one of the largest ChatGPT implementations in higher education, impacting more than 120,000 students, faculty, and staff. Judges highlighted IU’s clear governance framework, its GenAI 101 microcredential that teaches 20 practical AI skills and reaches tens of thousands of learners, as well as a forward-looking roadmap that embeds AI into teaching, research, and operations in a responsible, scalable way. By pairing broad access to tools with structured training and real-world application, IU is building a model for how higher education can integrate AI at scale.

Ascend Indiana Talent Innovation Award: Eli Lilly and Company (Indianapolis), Ivy Tech Community College (Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Lafayette Campuses), Purdue University (West Lafayette and Indianapolis)
This cross-institutional partnership earned top recognition for its thoughtful, employer-driven approach to expanding Indiana’s tech talent pipeline at scale. Building on initiatives such as the Lilly Scholars program and workforce-aligned training across Ivy Tech, Purdue University, and Indiana University, the collaboration creates a more connected pathway from education to employment. Judges noted the program’s seamless coordination across major institutions, its ability to extend existing models into new regions and disciplines, and its clear alignment with real workforce needs. With strong funding, strategic design, and a direct pathway from training to employment, the initiative demonstrates a powerful, statewide blueprint for talent innovation.

BioCrossroads Life Sciences Innovation Award: Syra Health Corp. (Carmel)
Syra Health stood out for its thoughtful and scalable approach to innovation in mental and behavioral health, combining validated clinical tools with AI-driven support for patients and providers. The company delivers technology-enabled solutions across behavioral health, population health, and healthcare workforce services, helping organizations improve access, care coordination, and outcomes in real time. Their platform bridges critical gaps in access, care coordination, and language inclusivity, with early clinical validation and strong adoption indicators. With a growing team, multi-state expansion plans, and publicly traded momentum, Syra Health is well positioned to drive meaningful life sciences impact across Indiana and beyond.

Community Impact Award: P30 (Indianapolis)
P30 delivered one of the clearest and most compelling community-impact cases in this year’s field, demonstrating measurable and deeply rooted support for underserved entrepreneurs on Indianapolis’s far Eastside. Based in a repurposed community space, P30 provides coworking, business programming, mentorship, and access to capital, moving individuals from idea to execution with the tools and support they need to grow. P30 also creates on-ramps into the tech ecosystem, connecting entrepreneurs to digital resources, innovation networks, and other opportunities that are often out of reach. Judges consistently highlighted P30’s visible outcomes, commitment to equity, and the meaningful pathways they are building for the far Eastside and beyond.

Conexus Indiana Manufacturing Innovation Award: MSP Manufacturing (Bloomington)
MSP Manufacturing was selected for its deep, multilayered integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, including advanced machining, robotics, AI-driven programming, digital twin initiatives, and next-generation ERP systems, all implemented largely in-house by a small but highly skilled team. The company, which has been manufacturing precision components for aerospace, defense, and aviation industries for more than 80 years, blends legacy craftsmanship with modern automation to deliver complex, mission-critical parts with speed and precision. Judges highlighted MSP’s willingness to take risks, upskill its workforce, and reinvest in people, resulting in increased wages, expanded capacity, and major diversification into new sectors. With deep collaboration across Indiana partners and a bold vision for future growth, MSP demonstrates what transformative, future-focused manufacturing looks like in the state.

Deal of the Year: BiomEdit’s $18.6M Series B
BiomEdit’s $18.6M Series B was selected as Deal of the Year for its strategic significance and strong signal of industry validation. The company is developing microbiome-based solutions using synthetic biology, including engineered probiotics designed to prevent disease in livestock without relying on antibiotics. Elanco Animal Health’s leadership in the round highlights both the commercial relevance of BiomEdit’s platform and a clear pathway to market through one of the industry’s leading animal health companies. Judges noted the scale of the investment, the caliber of participating investors, and the deal’s potential to drive long-term growth and economic impact within the state.

Emerging Tech Leader Award: Jonathon Brack, V2X (Fishers)
Jonathon Brack was recognized for his combination of technical excellence and servant leadership, resulting in significant growth and performance in a highly complex defense and national security environment. In his role at V2X, he leads teams developing and deploying mission-critical systems, with a focus on building scalable, repeatable solutions that perform in high-stakes conditions. Judges recognized his ability to build culture, mentor and elevate those around him, while delivering results that create meaningful impact for both his organization and the people it serves.

Innovation of the Year: Syra Health (Carmel)
Syra Health stood out for its technology-enabled innovation in healthcare, including HIPAA-compliant platforms and the emerging SyraBot, which judges described as potentially revolutionary for providers, patients, and system-level efficiency. The company delivers solutions across behavioral health, population health, and healthcare workforce services, with tools that support care navigation, training, and clinical operations. Their work is showing clear impact and growing adoption, particularly in high-need areas. While the broader statewide impact is still developing, the innovation’s significance to Indiana’s life sciences sector and its potential to shape a more effective and accessible healthcare ecosystem set Syra Health apart for Innovation of the Year.

Innovation Service Partner of the Year: Purdue Innovates (West Lafayette)
Purdue Innovates earned recognition for building a comprehensive, end-to-end platform that helps researchers and founders turn complex, real-world problems into commercial solutions, including the addition of in-house patent attorneys to accelerate and protect intellectual property. The initiative brings together funding, mentorship, startup support, and commercialization resources, guiding innovations from early research through company formation and market launch. This model already has supported a significant number of startups and products, bringing new companies, technologies, and investment into Indiana’s innovation ecosystem. With substantial resources devoted to growing this pipeline, Purdue Innovates is well positioned to expand that impact in the years ahead.

Nextech Computer Science Teacher of the Year: Carissa Domrase, Franklin Central High School (Indianapolis)
Carissa Domrase was recognized for her ability to build rigorous, hands-on computer science programs that prepare students for real-world success. Students in her AP Computer Science and web development courses take on semester-long projects with an emphasis on adaptability and collaboration, working in dynamic teams that mirror professional environments. She has guided students who have excelled in internships, advanced projects, and leadership roles after graduation, reflecting a classroom that develops both technical mastery and personal growth. As a department chair, Domrase mentors other educators and works across grade levels to ensure more students, including those from underrepresented backgrounds, have the opportunity to succeed in STEM pathways.

Resilience Award: Alicia Mckoy, Peak Mind (Indianapolis)
Alicia Mckoy was honored for her extraordinary courage in the face of relentless cyber harassment, identity theft, and personal attacks that threatened both her wellbeing and her startup’s survival. Rather than be deterred, she transformed adversity into purpose, continuing to build Peak Mind, an Indianapolis-based technology company that uses AI, biometrics, and immersive tools like virtual reality to help individuals and organizations better understand and manage stress in real time. Judges noted Mckoy’s ability to stabilize her company while also advocating for others navigating trauma, and to remain an active contributor to Indiana’s entrepreneurial and tech communities. Her story reflects strength, determination, and an unwavering commitment to turning hardship into hope.

Rising Entrepreneur of the Year: Kyle Armstrong, RefReps (Indianapolis)
Kyle Armstrong earned top honors for delivering a best-in-class entrepreneurial performance marked by clear vision, meaningful traction, and exceptional execution. He founded RefReps to address a growing national shortage of sports officials, building a digital platform that provides standardized curriculum, interactive training, and real-world simulation tools that is used by schools and organizations across the country. Judges highlighted his ability to identify a critical market need, build an innovative training platform, and navigate obstacles with focus and discipline. His strong growth strategy and commitment to strengthening the sports officiating ecosystem set him apart as an entrepreneur with both momentum and long-term potential.

Startup of the Year: Ekkobar (Indianapolis)
Ekkobar, a technology company pioneering AI-driven social intelligence, was recognized for its sophisticated product, strong early traction, and a team with deep experience in the entertainment industry. The startup’s platform uses conversational and predictive AI to analyze billions of social signals, helping brands, creators, and sports and media organizations understand their audiences and respond to what’s shaping culture in real time. Judges noted the company’s clear market understanding, strong execution, and meaningful innovation in the sports media space. Ekkobar demonstrated the momentum and maturity of a startup poised for significant growth.

Tech Company of the Year: V2X (Indianapolis)
V2X earned top honors for its ability to deliver mission-critical innovation in one of the most complex and demanding industries: national defense and human safety. The company brings together advanced engineering, AI, cybersecurity, logistics, and training to support critical missions across the full lifecycle, from strategy to deployment, ensuring systems are ready in high-stakes environments. Judges recognized the company’s clear articulation of the problems it solves, its rapid concept-to-deployment execution, and its role in advancing a safer, more resilient world through technology built and deployed in Indiana. With a disciplined approach, strong purpose, and real-world impact, V2X demonstrated the leadership and momentum that define a standout tech company.

TechPoint Tech Innovation of the Year: Flexware Innovation (Indianapolis)
Flexware Innovation delivers a standout solution that directly addresses complex industrial challenges with clear, measurable impact. The company specializes in automation, systems integration, and custom software solutions, working closely with manufacturers to modernize operations and connect legacy systems with new technology. Their approach combines strong technical innovation with an experienced development team and a disciplined process that ensures reliability, scalability, and real-world adoption. Flexware’s ability to pair deep engineering expertise with practical, on-the-ground execution made them the clear choice for Tech Innovation of the Year.

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About TechPoint: TechPoint is the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership’s branded initiative for Indiana’s tech-powered ecosystem driving the digital economy through talent, innovation and community with the overall goal of making Indiana a leader in digital adoption. TechPoint works with public, private, and industry partners to strengthen the tech talent pipeline, enhance resource connectivity for enterprise organizations and startups alike, and elevate the industry by activating the community and amplifying stories of success. For more information, visit techpoint.org. Media contact: Lara Beck, [email protected]

U.S. Senator Todd Young Recognized as 2025 Watanabe Life Sciences Champion for Leadership in Biotechnology, Advanced Manufacturing, and Innovation Policy Strengthening Indiana’s National Role in the Life Sciences.

INDIANAPOLIS (December 2025) —BioCrossroads has named U.S. Senator Todd Young as the recipient of the 2025 August M. Watanabe Life Sciences Champion of the Year Award, recognizing his visionary leadership in advancing innovation, collaboration, and U.S. competitiveness across the life sciences.

Senator Young was recognized for his leadership in advancing federal policies that directly reinforce Indiana’s strengths in biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and One Health innovation. Through his work on the CHIPS and Science Act, his role as chair of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, and his support for initiatives such as the Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub and workforce development partnerships, he has helped align national innovation and security priorities with opportunities for Indiana’s research institutions, companies, and talent pipeline. This record reflects the type of long-term, ecosystem-wide impact that the August M. Watanabe Life Sciences Champion of the Year Award was created to recognize.

The award was established in honor of BioCrossroads’ late chairman, Dr. August “Gus” M. Watanabe, an esteemed and transformative figure in Indiana’s life sciences community, and celebrates those who have significantly advanced the development, education, and promotion of Indiana’s life sciences and healthcare sector; personify the emerging face of the industry; and drive innovative developments that have both local and global impacts. Past distinguished honorees have come from diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurial ventures, research, corporate leadership, medical practice, academia, and philanthropy.

Dr. Watanabe’s passion and impact on Indiana’s life sciences community were transformative and enduring. Beyond his professional accomplishments, his caring and nurturing spirit continues to inspire the many people he touched throughout his career. Each recipient of this award embodies Dr. Watanabe’s legacy, contributing profoundly to the state’s growth in life sciences through their dedication and cumulative efforts.

Past Watanabe Life Science Champion of the Year Recipients

All Roads Led to Warsaw:
BioCrossroads FrameWORX Highlights Indiana’s Orthopedic Leadership

Known globally as the Orthopedic Capital of the World®, the region welcomed more than 200 scientists, researchers, business leaders, and students for BioCrossroads’ quarterly FrameWORX event: The Future of Musculoskeletal Health: Innovations in Orthopedic Medicine and Indiana’s Leadership Opportunity. Held at Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana the event placed Indiana’s orthopedic strength in the spotlight by bringing national voices together to discuss the science, industry, and impact of musculoskeletal health.

Orthopedics is one of the most important sectors in global health, providing implants, devices, and treatments that restore mobility, reduce pain, and extend quality of life for millions of patients. Warsaw has long been at the center of that mission. It is home to global leaders like Zimmer Biomet and J&J MedTech, alongside a thriving community of mid-sized companies, startups, suppliers, and innovators who design and manufacture orthopedic technologies that are used worldwide. Tens of thousands of Hoosiers work in this industry, making Indiana one of the largest concentrations of musculoskeletal expertise and production on the planet.

Article content — *J&J MedTech was one of many partners represented at the FrameWORX event at Grace College.*

The state’s academic and research institutions are also pushing the field forward. Purdue University is applying artificial intelligence to orthopedic product development, while the IU School of Medicine continues to make groundbreaking discoveries through the Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Health. Under the leadership of Dr. Melissa Kacena, the Center is working to secure a 10-year National Science Foundation award that could transform the state’s innovation economy. Indiana is a semifinalist for a grant that would expand STEM education for thousands of students, train nearly 2,000 people, launch dozens of new companies, bring new products to market, file hundreds of patents, create thousands of jobs, and generate more than half a billion dollars in economic impact. Just last year, Indiana continued its orthopedic momentum by approving a $30 million investment in the Orthopedic Industry Retention Initiative, a targeted effort to strengthen infrastructure, support workforce programs, and secure the long-term competitiveness of the region’s orthopedic sector.

The FrameWORX event reflected this momentum. Attendees heard from orthopedic oncologist and cancer survivor Dr. Kurt Weiss, who shared both clinical expertise and personal perspective on why advances in orthopedic medicine matter so profoundly. Dr. Weiss facilitated a panel with orthopedic patients whose voices offered a moving reminder of how these innovations change lives in real time. Industry and academic leaders from Zimmer Biomet, Purdue University, and IU Indianapolis spoke about how robotics, precision engineering, and data-driven research are reshaping orthopedic care. Leaders in manufacturing and workforce development discussed how Indiana is building the infrastructure and training the talent needed to sustain this global industry well into the future.

The program also featured perspectives from beyond Indiana. Dr. Hicham Drissi, professor and vice chair of research at Emory University School of Medicine and President-Elect of the Orthopaedic Research Society, praised Indiana’s collaborative spirit, remarking that “it takes two hands to clap” and that Warsaw’s energy and talent make it an ideal incubator for global growth.

Brandon Noll, Director of Plug & Play Indiana, underscored the state’s unique identity when he told the audience, “We’re not looking to be the Silicon Valley of Med Tech. We’re looking to be Med Tech Valley.”

Though Warsaw may be tucked away in northeast Indiana, far from major media hubs, its orthopedic impact resonates worldwide. Every day, thousands of professionals here are innovating, manufacturing, and delivering devices that improve lives across every continent. On August 20, the FrameWORX event showcased this global significance, while also pointing to even greater opportunities ahead.

“The musculoskeletal health sector is one of Indiana’s strongest global assets,” said Vince Wong, President and CEO of BioCrossroads. “This event underscored the extraordinary innovation happening here, the collaboration that drives it, and the opportunity for Indiana to continue leading the world in orthopedic medicine.”

Winners of the poster content held in conjunction with the FrameWorx event. — *Keynote speaker Dr. Kurt Weiss delivered moving remarks about his personal journey* *and*

Photos from FrameWORX

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Watch the full FrameWORX recap.

Life Sciences Face Challenges, but Indiana is Positioned to Succeed

Hundreds of Indiana’s life sciences and business leaders gathered at the IBJ Life Sciences Power Breakfast to reflect on our state’s momentum and the work still ahead. While there was plenty of good news shared about our state’s progress, we’re keeping our eyes wide open.

There was much to celebrate. Indiana is now the top state in the nation for life sciences exports, a title we also hold for pharmaceutical exports. The sector generates $99 billion in economic impact annually. And according to Plug and Play founder and longtime Silicon Valley leader Saeed Amidi, Indiana’s lack of oceans or mountains is irrelevant when you consider our ecosystem of global biotech companies, emerging startups, and world-class research institutions. Saeed said, “This can be the center of the health technology world.”

That optimism was underscored by a major announcement from the Indiana University Launch Accelerator for Biosciences (IU LAB): a $4.5 million, three-year commitment from IU Health to establish the IU Health Incubator at the 16 Tech Innovation District. The funding supports a new partnership between IU LAB, the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), and global venture firm Plug and Play Tech Center to accelerate the growth of high-potential life sciences startups. As part of the broader initiative, Madison-based accelerator gener8tor will run a pre-accelerator program for early-stage companies still developing their products, while Plug and Play and CICP will lead a follow-on accelerator for startups with viable products and demonstrated market traction, preparing them for fundraising and scale.

The message was clear: Indiana is an increasingly exciting home for the life sciences. But even in Indiana, with our love of racing, there’s no such thing as a finish line. We must do a better job of tightly branding who we are and what we offer, helping us to directly compete with the Bay Area, San Diego, Boston, and Research Triangle Park in North Carolina. U.S. cities everywhere are working to attract life sciences organizations because they understand the direct line between economic development and the sector. And yet, the environment is increasingly choppy: tariffs could impose undue pressure on our exports, and grants from the National Institutes of Health – pivotal to helping our research organizations succeed – could be cut drastically by the federal government. There are plenty of land mines to navigate.

Our progress has been meaningful, and our top priority is ensuring Indiana organizations continue to succeed. Fortunately, we are working from a position of strength. We will continue to leverage our assets to build talent and incentives across a vibrant Hoosier State.