At the forum, which bought together 60 leading CEOs and investors from across the UK's life sciences sector, Kevin also described how Index's asset-based funding model works.
Speaking at the conference, Kevin said:
"Our asset-centric model funds building a company as a vehicle for a single programme without building infrastructure. These companies are lean operations, usually with up to six people, designed to take a therapeutic product from pre-clinical studies to a first-in-man trial.
"We have made two significant changes to how we establish companies. First, we have a pool of serial entrepreneurs who not only recognise opportunities and bring in deals to us, but also they are happy to be involved in those companies. Second, we want to be better informed about the projects we are choosing to invest in, and this is where our partnership with GlaxoSmithKline and Johnson & Johnson comes in because we can tap into their institutional memory. So far, it seems to be working out."
Steve Bates, BIA Chief Executive Officer, said:
"Kevin's comments provided delegates at our forum with excellent insight into one of a number of new funding opportunities that could help companies in the UK to traverse the 'valley of death'. I hope BIA member companies will approach Kevin to discuss future funding opportunities."
For further information, please contact Robert Winder, Head of Communications, rwinder@bioindustry.org, 020 7630 2191; mobile 07825 942 934.
An audio recording of Kevin Johnson's conversation with Steve Bates is available: http://bit.ly/biakevinatindex
BioIndustry Association
Founded over 20 years ago at the infancy of biotechnology, the BioIndustry Association (BIA) is the trade association for innovative enterprises involved in UK bioscience. Members include emerging and more established bioscience companies; pharmaceutical companies; academic, research and philanthropic organisations; and service providers to the bioscience sector. The BIA represents the interests of its members to a broad section of stakeholders, from government and regulators to patient groups and the media. Our goal is to secure the UK's position as a global hub and as the best location for innovative research and commercialisation, enabling our world-leading research base to deliver healthcare solutions that can truly make a difference to people's lives. For further information, please go to www.bioindustry.org
