Biopharm GmbH develops recombinant proteins (proteins produced using genetically modified microorganisms or in cell cultures) for regenerative medicine. In a second step, Biopharm licenses these to pharmaceutical companies to conduct clinical trials and further develop their own drug research.

One of the company's most significant developments is the bone and cartilage growth factor R399E, which rebuilds cartilage tissue and represents a significant approach for arthritis and osteoarthritis therapy. The preclinical studies, including production (E. coli) and purification, have been successfully completed and can be transferred to clinical research.

A conversation with Biopharm founder and CEO Michael Paulista.

What makes a successful start-up?

In my opinion, a successful start-up is based one-third on an idea, one-third on the will to implement that idea, and one-third on luck. Entrepreneurship shows itself in the founders' desire to act and implement their ideas despite obstacles. And then you also need the luck to find the right experts and contacts.

What advice would you give to young founders in hindsight?

My first piece of advice is not to rely on research funding but to find industrial partners as early as possible who can carry out even expensive projects with long-term commitment. The development of pharmaceutical products takes ten to twelve years nowadays. Since this is not always easy, my second piece of advice is to view these challenges as a sport.

How did you come up with the idea to start your company?

Biopharm was founded in Heidelberg in 1986. At that time, I was a freelance business consultant working nationwide for breweries. At an event, I met Reinhold Sommer, who had just founded the company Gen Bio Tec. Mr. Sommer was looking for a pharmaceutical partner. Initially, I had no knowledge of biotech, but I got involved and was able to connect him with a major pharmaceutical company, which significantly and successfully invested in Gen Bio Tec. At the same time, I partnered with a scientific partner in contract development. That's how my company Biopharm was born.

How did your founding process go?

Starting my own company was one of the best ideas I've ever had. You can see what has become of it. I was fortunate to always find the right contacts in science and industry in Heidelberg. I also had excellent support from the authorities, especially in the early phase when it came to setting up the first laboratories. It was a great collaboration. I always look back on it with joy.

What significance does the Heidelberg Technology Park have for you?

The Technology Park offers an excellent forum where you can exchange ideas, get help, and also provide help. The Technology Park is well known for this.

What distinguishes the Heidelberg location?

Heidelberg as an educational and research location is excellently positioned with the university, the DKFZ, the Max Planck Institutes, and the EMBL. Heidelberg is also very future-oriented, especially when it comes to artificial intelligence. For starting a company and looking for well-educated employees, I can hardly imagine a better place in Germany and Europe. And finally, Heidelberg is located in a highly livable region.

What significance do entrepreneurs have in this innovation ecosystem?

Entrepreneurs play a significant role. They must assess which developments they see as sustainable and seek suitable partners early on who have the necessary financial resources. I think of large industrial companies, where visionaries, not just administrators, operate. Heidelberg is very well positioned for such collaborations.

What is your wish for the future of Heidelberg?

I would like to see more scientists, especially in the field of biotechnology, finding the courage to take the necessary steps towards starting their own company and finding competent partners. This would further benefit the already excellent Heidelberg location.

by Dr. Stefan Burkhardt

Download: Testimonial from Dr. Michael Paulista