The BioHealth Capital Region (BHCR)—Recognized as a top 3 U.S. biohealth cluster, the BHCR continues to lead in areas such as advanced biomanufacturing, infectious disease research, precision medicine, and AI-driven healthcare solutions—anchored by institutions like NIH, FDA, BARDA, ARPA-H, and world-class academic centers.
Encompassing Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., The BioHealth Capital Region is one of the nation’s top biohealth hubs, home to a unique concentration of federal labs, top-tier research institutions, emerging startups, and global industry leaders. With over 2,300 life science companies, 78 federal laboratories, and a talent-rich workforce, the region thrives on public-private collaboration and groundbreaking innovation in biotechnology, diagnostics, digital health, biomanufacturing, and therapeutics.
This ecosystem is where discovery meets impact, and where startups, investors, government, and academia converge to shape the future of human health.
September 23–25, 2025 | US Pharmacopeia (USP), Rockville, Maryland
BioHealth Capital Region Week is the premier annual gathering for life sciences leaders across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.—bringing together executives, investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, and government partners for three days of impactful programming and high-value networking.
Now in its 11th year, BHCR Week showcases the strength and momentum of the region’s biohealth ecosystem through a series of signature events below.

The BioHealth Capital Region Forum

REGISTRATION
The BioHealth Capital Region Forum (September 23–24): A two-day conference featuring keynotes, expert panels, fireside chats, and breakout sessions exploring the future of biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, AI in healthcare, public-private partnerships, and more.
  • 2025 theme: “Where Human and Artificial Intelligence Converge in the BioHealth Industry.”
  • Celebrates 11 years of convening the region’s top biohealth stakeholders.
  • Highlights trends in advanced therapeutics, AI/ML, quantum, manufacturing, and policy.
  • Offers unique networking opportunities during evening receptions at USP.
APPLY HERE

Crab Trap Competition

The Crab Trap Competition (September 24): A fast-paced startup pitch competition spotlighting early-stage companies with transformative technologies, judged by a panel of investors and industry leaders.
  • A competitive pitch event for emerging startups with disruptive biohealth technologies.
  • Finalists selected by a panel of experts to present live before judges and attendees.
  • Prizes may include cash, CRO services, and visibility through media and investor platforms.
  • Open to companies from across the region, U.S., and internationally.
  • Past winners have gone on to secure investment, partnerships, and regulatory progress.

Investment Conference

REGISTER
The BioHealth Capital Region Investment Conference (September 25): A full day of curated 1:1 investor meetings, company presentations, and networking opportunities designed to connect startups with capital and strategic partnerships.
  • One-on-one partnering meetings between startups and investors, coordinated via HelloPartnering.
  • Quick-pitch sessions for select companies to present their investment opportunity to the audience.
  • Attended by top VC, PE, and strategic investors focused on life sciences and health tech.
  • Designed to accelerate deal flow, funding connections, and strategic partnerships.
  • Participation is open to all companies—Crab Trap applicants are strongly encouraged to register.