iBIO unveiled the six finalists vying for the inaugural Timothy P. Walbert Entrepreneurship Impact Award, a prestigious $50,000 prize recognizing outstanding Illinois entrepreneurs in the life sciences industry.

The finalists for this first-ever competition are:

“This award honors the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation of our local life sciences startups,” said John Conrad, iBIO President and CEO. “Illinois is an emerging powerhouse for biotech, and initiatives like this will propel our startups and cement the region as a global destination for the industry.”

The winner will be announced at a ceremony on June 20th at Fulton Labs in Chicago, featuring a keynote from John Crowley, CEO of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO). Crowley’s journey bringing treatments for rare diseases to market was depicted in the 2010 film “Extraordinary Measures.”

The $50,000 award is named after Tim Walbert, chairman of Horizon Therapeutics, recognizing his leadership and commitment to patients, innovation and entrepreneurship in Illinois.

“This competition organized by iBIO honors Tim’s relentless drive to create breakthrough therapies that improve patients’ lives,” Conrad said. “We’re thrilled to spotlight our local entrepreneurial talent carrying that torch forward.”

Visit ibio.org/walbert-award for event details, sponsorship opportunities and registration. The ceremony kicks off at 1pm with Crowley’s keynote, followed by company pitches from 2-5pm.

This article was originally published on iBIO NewsBrief. Gain a head start on your day with iBIO NewsBrief. Subscribe to receive top industry headlines delivered straight to your inbox.