BioWin strengthens focus on advanced therapies and nuclear medicine
Belgium’s health innovation cluster, BioWin, is adjusting its strategic focus to address the challenges facing the life sciences sector. While continuing to support a broad range of initiatives in the fields of biopharma and health-tech, BioWin will reinforce its efforts in two areas where Belgium and Wallonia hold a strong European position: advanced therapies and nuclear medicine.
“We want to avoid spreading ourselves too thin—something that has historically weakened Wallonia’s impact,” explains Sylvie Ponchaut, Chief Executive Officer of BioWin. “The organisation does not provide direct funding but facilitates collaborative projects and public-private partnerships, particularly in research”.
Strengthening Financial Autonomy
BioWin is also taking steps to diversify its funding sources. The Walloon government is pushing for greater self-financing among innovation clusters, and BioWin is adapting accordingly. Currently, 70% of its revenue comes from private contributions, including membership fees and services.
“The economic and geopolitical context is complex, and we must adapt,” Sylvie Ponchaut states. “Many of our members are facing difficulties, while others continue to grow and recruit heavily. The sector remains dynamic, and we still struggle with talent shortages rather than surpluses.”
A New COO to Drive Change
To implement this strategic shift, BioWin has expanded its team, including the appointment of a new Chief Operating Officer (COO), David Honba. A bioengineer with operational and commercial experience at GSK and Univercells, David Honba will focus on making BioWin more agile and enhancing its service offerings.
“As COO, I will oversee the practical execution of this strategy, not only in advanced therapies and nuclear medicine but also in medtech and digital health,” David Honba explains. “We need to refine our internal processes to better support members in collaborative projects and strengthen our region’s competitiveness. Enhancing synergies with strategic partners—government bodies, investment funds, AWEX, science parks, and hospitals—will be crucial. Integrating hospitals into the innovation framework is a priority.”
Expanding Collaborations Across Belgium
BioWin is also working to secure additional funding and forge stronger ties with Flanders. One major initiative currently underway is the development of a national clinical trial network for vaccines. This comes at a critical time, as Belgium is losing ground in this highly competitive sector.
Furthermore, with the support of AWEX, we are enhancing our international visibility and positioning Wallonia as a key destination for foreign companies looking to contribute to the reinforcement of global value chains.
“These efforts will help maintain our leadership in key health sectors while ensuring BioWin’s long-term sustainability,” concludes Sylvie Ponchaut.