State's bio sector emerging
State's bio sector emerging

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By Debbie Anglin

Published: July 2, 2008

Our state is to be commended for its branding and marketing efforts at the recent international BIO conference in San Diego. Collectively assembled by the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce under the fledgling Oklahoma Bioscience Association flag, our state's presence was extremely well-planned and organized. Our chamber is to be congratulated on a great success. The diverse Oklahoma delegation consisted of biotech companies, scientists, researchers, bio funding sources and economic development organizations. The Oklahoman's coverage of the conference further demonstrated to the world that Oklahoma has so much to offer and is a serious and respected player in the biotech industry.

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Why does this matter? Positioning Oklahoma as a bioscience leader and innovator is paramount to our ability to grow and expand existing bio enterprises, as well as attract new science and technology companies — desirable not just for high-paying jobs and expanded business opportunities, but for the long-term, far-reaching benefits of improved health care, enhanced agriculture, and a cleaner and safer environment.

It's a competitive industry and we still have a long way to go. Our universities are approaching science, technology, engineering and math education in new and creative ways, helping to ensure a pipeline of skilled talent. And the newly formed Oklahoma Bioscience Association is providing tremendous support and leadership for biotech companies statewide.

But other states and countries are making sizable investments and focusing significant economic development efforts, as evidenced by the 2008 State Technology and Science Index that ranked Oklahoma 38th in tech standing among the states. That's why we must continue to support emerging science and technology companies through the EDGE fund, OCAST, i2E and others.

What I heard repeatedly at BIO from business owners and scientists visiting our exhibit was surprise and interest in Oklahoma. One CEO of a German biotech company, after learning more about our biotech industry, asked me why he hadn't heard about Oklahoma before. As a public relations professional, I of course attribute it to the need to promote and educate the rest of the world about what our state has to offer; Oklahoma's presence at BIO is critical to this effort.

As individuals and business owners, we should consider ourselves part of a state that has a well-established and vitally important bio sector. As a research scientist once told me, never wait for an opportunity to arrive; create your own.

Anglin is owner of Anglin Public Relations, which represents several biotech companies and research organizations.