The New Rules of Global Partnering in Life Sciences
By Helena Strigård, Founder and Senior Advisor at Ventures Accelerated
March 18, 2026
Helena Strigård, CEO, Venture Accelerated, Columnist, Pharma Industry.
In a recent Pharma Industry column by Helena Strigård, CEO of Ventures Accelerated, the evolving dynamics of global partnering in the life sciences sector are explored through firsthand observations from major industry events such as BioEurope and the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference.
Following several companies navigating capital raising and market preparation since late 2025, the article highlights how the industry has entered a new phase shaped by geopolitical shifts, financial pressure across biotech, and rapid technological change. Despite these challenges, significant mergers, acquisitions, and large financing rounds demonstrate that opportunities remain strong for companies that are strategically prepared.
A key insight emerging from Helena Strigård’s observations is that success increasingly depends on being globally agile and strategically positioned. Companies that thrive today combine scientific excellence with the ability to navigate international partnerships, capital markets, and regulatory environments quickly and effectively.
Several companies illustrate this new model of global readiness:
Treos Bio, a clinical-stage biotech developing next-generation cancer immunotherapies, has built an international operational structure spanning the UK, Germany, Hungary, and the US. Through collaborations with leading institutions such as Charité Berlin and a network of European hospitals, the company has positioned itself strategically ahead of a major Phase IIb trial.
OnDosis, a Swedish company spun out of AstraZeneca, demonstrates the importance of selecting the right strategic partners when entering complex markets such as the United States. Its leadership emphasizes that successful expansion requires partners who bring not only capital, but deep sector knowledge and access to key networks.
Diamyd Medical, working on a potentially transformative treatment for type 1 diabetes, highlights how global expertise and preparation are essential when approaching the US market. Understanding regulatory pathways, payer systems, and the broader healthcare ecosystem is critical to achieving successful market entry.
Across these examples, one common theme emerges: “global street-smartness.” Companies must combine scientific innovation with strong international awareness, strategic alliances, and the ability to execute quickly.
As venture capital investor Samad Wahid of Red Tree Venture Capital notes, biotech companies can no longer rely solely on local ecosystems. Success increasingly requires leveraging global advantages across manufacturing, clinical development, and talent; while moving fast enough to capture opportunities.
For life science companies preparing for growth, fundraising, or market expansion, the message is clear: global partnering is no longer optional; it is a core strategic capability.
Read Helena Strigård’s full article on Pharma Industry here