A new accelerator program in Arkansas, targeting biotech startups from around the world, is now seeking applicants interested in using clinical trial sites in the state capable of rapidly enrolling diverse groups of patients for their drug trials.
The accelerator, called the BioAR Trial, is a product of HealthTech Arkansas, an organization that promotes innovation in Arkansas through accelerators and other programs, and investment firm Symbiosis Capital Management. Bentonville, Arkansas-based SymBiosis’ investments include cell therapy developer Adicet Biodeveloper of microbiome therapies MaaT Pharma and gene therapy biotechnology Ensoma.
BioAR Trial is looking for late-stage preclinical companies that plan to enter the clinic in the next 12 months, or companies looking to start Phase 2 or 3 trials. The accelerator is focused on the development of advanced and emerging therapies, such as precision medicine, biologics, cell therapies and genetic medicines. These therapies can be in a number of indications that include cancer, immune disorders, and cardiometabolic diseases.
Companies accepted into the BioAR Trial will be guaranteed a clinical trial site in Arkansas. The accelerator will also work with these companies to facilitate clinical trials. Participating companies do not have to relocate to Arkansas, but a company representative will be required to be present at a clinical trial site if needed. Jahan Ali, Vice President of Business Development at SymBiosis, will lead the BioAR Trial.
“We take very seriously the task of helping accelerate the growth and success of companies developing some of the world’s most promising therapeutics by streamlining the clinical trial process,” Ali said in a prepared statement. “The combination of the resources and capabilities of SymBiosis and HealthTech Arkansas will allow the BioAR Trial to do just that.”
Applications for the BioAR Trial will be accepted until January 15, 2023. A selection committee composed of representatives from health systems and clinical trial sites working with BioAR will review the applications and interview 10 to 15 finalists. Five companies will be accepted into BioAR’s first batch. The accelerator will take $50,000 in kind at each company.
For more information and to submit an online request, go to here. The first group of five companies will start on April 15.
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