The biotechnology industry continues to expand rapidly during the 21st century. Currently valued at $1.55 trillion globally, experts predict over 13% compound annual growth through 2030. The United States leads biotechnology innovation through large corporations and fledgling startups. Developing nations also now enter the biotech arena via governmental initiatives and infrastructure/research investments.
Multiple factors have driven biotechnology’s growth recently. The COVID-19 pandemic spurred the aggressive pursuit of successful drug candidates, enabling mass vaccination manufacturing contracts. mRNA vaccine successes combined with accelerated approval processes have increased revenues. Rising chronic disease rates also boost clinical solution demand to treat cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s. Specific complex biotechnological platforms and methodologies, including stem cell technology and genetic engineering, also enjoy widening acceptance.
Dr. Leen Kawas, Propel Bio Partners’ Managing General Partner, contributes extensive entrepreneurial and technological biotech experience. She partners with creative, innovative, disciplined startups and early-stage firms. Dr. Kawas prefers working with longer-term thinkers who emphasize due diligence. However, she welcomes all founders, including women- and minority-led companies—her investment selection centers on first- or best-in-class candidates with clear competitive advantages. Beyond evaluating products and mechanisms of action, Dr. Kawas stresses appraising management’s clinical strategy and execution abilities.
The biotechnology industry’s rapid pace demands quick, multifaceted decisions from managers. Dr. Leen Kawas seeks leaders who can incorporate scientific, financial, regulatory, and other shifts when deciding. Previously, as Athira Pharma’s CEO, she supervised multiple development cycles and a prosperous 2020 IPO. For Dr. Kawas’ accomplishments, the industry presented her with various honors.
Today at Propel Bio Partners, Dr. Leen Kawas relishes positively impacting biotechnology’s growth. She feels well-prepared to address inevitable challenges, too. Working alongside Propel’s talented team while guiding biotech entrepreneurs, Dr. Kawas follows a rewarding path.
