by Tony Jones, CEO, One Nucleus

Each calendar year, a significant proportion of the world’s life science dealmakers, and increasingly the corresponding service providers, head to San Francisco for the annual J P Morgan Week. A true melting pot of those seeking to invest, grow and operate in the life science sector. A very strong sense of having to be present to be seen to be in the game and stay up to date, with 13-16 January 2025 set to be no different among the dynamic geopolitical and investment landscapes.

There is always a strong contingent that travel from the One Nucleus network. Whilst it is a great opportunity for companies to secure those vital meetings with investors, partners and clients much of the feedback over recent years has also indicated some challenges. Cost, facilities and environmental impact are now frequently mentioned as considerations ahead of booking.

One Nucleus core staff have not attended for several years. It is important that One Nucleus, and I imagine all other similar support groups, always keep in mind not wanting to bring any overhead to the community of members they are serving unless it feels like it is justified expenditure. Afterall, the income is generated from those very companies in return for effective support. As set out below, JPM Week is a very hectic few days and pre-planning of meetings is key. To this end, is it reasonable of One Nucleus to spend >£10,000 to be on the ground with members, who’s respective diaries could already be fully booked for those days and hence One Nucleus support in situ may not be a justifiable expense. It can be great for One Nucleus itself in terms of profile, networking and education, but perhaps that is not the top priority for its paying members. That is not to say One Nucleus does not support our members around JPM Week, however. As set out below, a number of the One Nucleus relationships are leveraged to enable our members to gain maximum return on their investment of making the trip.

Genesis and RESI London – 4 December

Connecting and relationship building in advance of attending JPM Week is key. Genesis has provided a December forum to begin that for our network for the past 24 years. This year however, there is an even bigger potential benefit as we collaborate to bring RESI to London for the first time. The attendees at these concomitantly running events will be able to network and meet, perhaps making great progress ahead of follow up at RESI JPM 2025.

Biotechgate Pre-JPM Partnering Week 2-6 December online

Running online from 2-6 December, five days of virtual partnering to support business development for Pharma. Biotech, Medtech and Digital Health companies. One Nucleus members get free premium access.

Biotech Showcase 2025 13-16 January 2025

Biotech Showcase is a premier investor conference committed to creating a platform for private and micro-mid-cap biotechnology companies, offering them a unique opportunity to showcase their innovations and engage one-to-one with investors and biopharmaceutical executives. Through the One Nucleus - EBD Group collaboration, discounted delegate fees are available for One Nucleus members.

RESI JPM 2025 14-16 January 2025

The 50th RESI Conference will be held on January 14 at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, featuring an in-person event followed by three days (January 15-16, and 21) of online partnership activities. Previous RESI JPM conferences have drawn over a thousand attendees, including more than 500 early-stage life science investors, innovators, and industry experts. One Nucleus members receive $100 discount.

Staying Connected at JPM Week – Join Prashant’s WhatsApp Group

 

Although One Nucleus staff are not physically on the ground at JPM Week, the connectivity doesn’t stop. Thanks to our Chair, Prashant Shah and numerous One Nucleus members will be there. If you’d like to stay connected to the group, do ask to be added to the WhatsApp Group managed by Prashant.

Biomed/Biocom/One Nucleus Cocktail Reception 13 January 18.00-21.00

    

Connecting to peers and key life science ecosystems has never been so important when the goal is to scale-up a leading business translating great science into better patient outcomes globally. The networking receptions in San Francisco are an excellent add on to the day’s business for such connecting. With that in mind, BioMed Realty are kindly hosting a cocktail reception for members of Biocom California and One Nucleus during JPM Week. For more details email info@onenucleus.com 

Top Tips from Those with Experience – key messages from the One Nucleus BioWednesday Breakfast held 13 November 2024

• Preparation is Key – Although BIO and others provide a facility, there is no automated partnering platform for JPM Week, so dedicated preparation is essential to organise meetings effectively.
• It’s Expensive – so only attend if well prepared and the meeting is at the right time for you. FOMO can be overrated.
• Fringe Events – the receptions and networking can be a valuable add-on. Some however are invitation only or restricted so building strong relationships in advance can be very beneficial.
• Space – securing space to meet is important to plan. Hotels are busy and expensive. Explore renting a small, serviced office as a base to host meetings.
• Flights – Staying longer can significantly reduce flight costs and allow additional time for setting up local meetings.
• Getting the best ROI – Key success factors to getting the most out of JPM Week include (i) Attend multiple times to build recognition and credibility with others; (ii) Approach networking with curiosity to learn about potential partners; and (iii) Have an effective elevator pitch in advance of networking.
• Data Security – Ensure all team members has clarity on what is or is not public information and avoid working on sensitive or confidential slide decks and documents in public spaces, eg on the plane.

The above tips are perhaps considered common sense for some, but it is striking how often of those with the most experience overlook what they have started to take as obvious, then promptly forget to practice. Good examples being to pack comfortable shoes and a good umbrella. To finish this section, two quotes from the esteemed panel of Prashant Shah, Laragh Jeanroy, Jane Dancer and Bradley Hardiman.

“JPM is a rich networking experience with few comparable events and there is nothing quite like it!”

and

“Your net worth is your network!”  

Travel and Accommodation Support

  

Of course, most will have their logistics sorted by now for January. However, whether for deciding last minute, changing plans or even to think about for future trips, One Nucleus members can be supported by Travel Counsellors to secure the best rates and support available.