The dynamic biotech sector is characterized by cutting-edge research, strategic partnerships, and groundbreaking projects in areas such as biologics, synthetic biology, and DNA data storage.
The biotech and healthcare sector is arguably the most dynamic part of Slovenian industry, driven by significant investments and innovative companies. This dynamism is powerfully exemplified by Novartis's recent €40 million investment in a state-of-the-art viral vector production facility in Mengeš—the first of its kind in Europe.
The investment underscores Slovenia's critical role in the development of cutting-edge biologics for the Swiss pharmaceutical giant. However, this vibrant space isn't solely defined by global groups like Novartis, or well-established local players like Slovenian pharma company Krka, tech leader in medical lasers Fotona, or Sartorius Bia Separation, a leading bio-chromatography development and manufacturing company.
SMEs like Acies Bio, Genialis, and Biosistemika also exemplify the sector's dynamism. Acies Bio, specializing in microbial biotechnology, synthetic biology, and precision fermentation, collaborates with international giants like BASF and LG, contributing mostly expertise while the partners handle large-scale production and marketing. A recent partnership with US biotech firm Protein Evolution focuses on commercial-scale enzyme-based plastic recycling. Genialis was founded by Slovenian scientists but is headquartered in Boston. The company develops AI based solutions for detecting biomarkers – a crucial element in cancer treatment. Biosistemika’s Datana project, focusing on DNA-based data storage, has received funding from the European Innovation Council Accelerator and support from NATO's DIANA program.
