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A New Chapter for Texas Innovation — DPRIT Becomes Reality |
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The people of Texas have spoken — with the approval of Proposition 14, our state has charted a bold new path in neuroscience, research, and care for dementia, Alzheimer’s and related brain health conditions. The vote makes official the creation of the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT) — backed by $3 billion in funding over 10 years.
At BioNTX, we have been part of the steady awareness-building campaign from data and stories to community engagement and industry alignment. Thank you for your role in educating your colleagues, family, friends and neighbors about this tremendous opportunity!
Now, with DPRIT officially on the books, our focus shifts from “why this matters” to “what it means now” for North Texas and beyond.
For our ecosystem, this means:
We stand at the beginning of a new chapter — one where research, industry and community move in tandem. For the life-science ecosystem of North Texas, this moment demands action, alignment and vision.
Among the first actions will be the establishment of an oversight committee to govern and help guide the creation of the new institute. The DPRIT Oversight Committee will be composed of nine (9) members: three (3) appointed by the Governor, three (3) by the Lt. Governor and three (3) appointed by the Speaker of the Texas House. Each leader must appoint at least one Texan who is a physician or scientist with extensive experience working with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or related disorders or in the field of public health; and should attempt to include persons affected by these disorders or their family members or caregivers. If you know of someone who would be a good candidate for the DPRIT Oversight Committee, please reach out to BioNTX so we may connect you with people already working on this
Stay tuned for how BioNTX and our partners will continue to support DPRIT’s implementation because this milestone vote by Texans is just the start of advancing this important and life-changing mission. |
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Introducing BioNTX Presents: Inside Innovation |
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(from left to right) Lili Clark of Lyda Hill Philanthropies, Eric B. Moore of BioNTX and Matt Crommett of Lyda Hill Philanthropies |
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Exploring the people, ideas, and breakthroughs shaping the North Texas life sciences ecosystem.
BioNTX is proud to introduce Inside Innovation, a new flagship storytelling platform designed to illuminate the pulse and potential of the North Texas life sciences community. Hosted by Eric B. Moore, Chief Communications Officer at BioNTX, the series brings audiences inside the conversations driving discovery, investment, and impact across our region.
Each 30-minute episode offers a candid look behind the scenes of innovation—from the laboratories where ideas are born to the partnerships and policies that bring them to life. Through thoughtful dialogue with founders, investors, researchers, and ecosystem leaders, Inside Innovation captures the human stories and catalytic moments that are shaping the future of biotechnology and healthcare.
The series launches with its first episode, “The Nature of Catalyst,” featuring Matthew Crommett, Managing Director at Lyda Hill Philanthropies and LH Capital, and Lili Clark, Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Together, they explore the role of visionary philanthropy and catalytic investment in creating the foundation for innovation hubs like Pegasus Park—and how that spark continues to shape the North Texas biotech landscape today.
With new episodes releasing throughout the fall, Inside Innovation will feature leaders from across academia, investment, corporate strategy, and nonprofit sectors—including The University of Texas at Arlington, Alloy Therapeutics, BioLabs at Pegasus Park, and others who are helping define what is next for North Texas and beyond.
Because in North Texas, innovation is not only happening—it is accelerating. |
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Give Back This Season at Pegasus Park |
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Pegasus Park is collecting nonperishable items including boxed, canned, and shelf stable foods to support local organizations and community members who dedicate their time and energy to others throughout the year.
Every can, box, and bag makes a difference. Your donations help nourish our neighbors and support those who keep our community thriving. |
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COMING SOON |
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Connect and Collaborate at BIO BREAK Across North Texas |
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BIO BREAK is your chance to network across North Texas. From Dallas to Fort Worth to Frisco, connect with peers, share insights, and build relationships that strengthen the life science and healthcare community. Do not miss the opportunity to expand your network and spark new collaborations. |
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CFO Forum: Expert Tax & Accounting Guidance for Life Sciences January 22, 2026 |
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Presents 2026 CFO Forum |
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Join us to learn key tax and accounting strategies to help you prepare for growth and maximize opportunities around qualified small business stock (QSBS), R&D credits, state nexus, and more.
Connect with Baker Tilly experts who can help you navigate the financial complexities of building and scaling your life science company. |
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Thank you for your support |
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Save the Date: The BioNTX Career Expo & HR Forum February 11, 2026 |
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Presents 2026 Career Expo & HR Forum |
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The Career Expo connects students and job seekers with industry professionals and recruiters shaping the future of life sciences and healthcare innovation. Explore valuable networking opportunities, receive expert career guidance, and access resources to enhance your resume, boost confidence, and navigate your career path. |
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The HR Forum is designed for biotech and healthcare innovation employers seeking to navigate the complexities of workforce management. This forum also provides opportunities to explore emerging trends in human resources, share best practices, and connect with peers facing similar workforce challenges. |
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Thank you for your support |
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Save the Date: Women Driving Innovation March 6, 2026 |
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Presents 2026 Women Driving Innovation |
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In celebration of International Women’s Day, Women Driving Innovation honors women transforming the life sciences industry through leadership, creativity, and groundbreaking research.
The program promotes collaboration, mentorship, and visibility, empowering the next generation of women innovators shaping the future of North Texas life sciences. |
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MEMBER NEWS |
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BMK Pharma Brings Advanced Pharmaceutical Manufacturing to Allen |
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Jay Bhaumik, PharmD, MBA, MS |
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BMK Pharma will open its 50,000-square-foot U.S. headquarters in Allen, Texas, as a 503B compounding pharmacy and sterile CDMO, producing injectable drugs and sterile dosage forms. The facility, expected to open in Q3 2026, will create 100+ skilled jobs, including engineers, chemists, pharmacists, and researchers. Founded by Dr. Jay Bhaumik, BMK Pharma aims to advance “Made in America” medicines and strengthen the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain while partnering with biotech and pharmaceutical companies on sterile product development. |
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Celanese Finalizes Agreement to Sell Micromax® Portfolio to Element Solutions |
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Celanese Corporation announced plans to divest its Micromax® portfolio to Element Solutions Inc, furthering its focus on deleveraging and strategic growth. The move brings Micromax®’s advanced electronic materials under Element Solutions’ expanding electronics platform. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026. |
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CrossBridge Bio Secures Seed Funding to Advance Dual-Payload ADC Cancer Therapies |
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CrossBridge Bio, a biotechnology company developing dual-payload antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for targeted cancer treatment, has closed a seed financing round led by TMC Venture Fund and CE-Ventures, with participation from Portal Innovations, Alexandria Venture Investments, Linden Lake Labs, and other early investors.
The funding will support the development of CBB-120, a TROP-2 dual-payload ADC for solid tumors, and accelerate the expansion of CrossBridge’s pipeline of next-generation ADC programs. Based on research from UTHealth Houston, the company’s platform integrates multiple payload mechanisms and proprietary linker technology to enhance precision, stability, and safety in cancer therapies. |
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Colossal Biosciences Expands Conservation Capabilities with Acquisition of Viagen Pets and Equine |
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Colossal Biosciences, the world’s first de-extinction company, has acquired Viagen Pets and Equine, a global leader in animal cloning and genetic preservation. Viagen provides cloning services for pets, equine, livestock, and endangered species. This marks Colossal’s first acquisition, expanding its capabilities in conservation and biotechnology. Viagen will continue to operate under its current leadership as a wholly owned subsidiary, with plans to grow its endangered species cloning platform across additional species and regions worldwide. |
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Secretome Therapeutics Launches Phase 1 Trial for Novel Heart Failure Therapy |
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Secretome Therapeutics has begun a Phase 1 trial of STM-01, its neonatal cardiac progenitor cell therapy, to treat heart failure in young adults with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The trial will take place at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, with a pediatric trial planned afterward. STM-01 has shown significant improvements in preclinical studies and could offer a new treatment for both adult and pediatric patients with DCM. The facility will evaluate multiple ascending doses, advancing research in a rare and life-threatening form of heart failure. |
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JPMorganChase Launches Initiative to Boost National Security and Innovation |
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JPMorganChase has announced the Security and Resiliency Initiative, a 10-year plan to support industries critical to U.S. economic security and innovation. The initiative focuses on Supply Chain & Advanced Manufacturing, Defense & Aerospace, Energy Independence & Resilience, and Frontier & Strategic Technologies, providing financing, guidance, and strategic support to companies of all sizes to strengthen supply chains, infrastructure, and technological leadership. |
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TDIndustries and Texas Health Resources Launch First Dallas ISD Good For You Healthy Hub |
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Ribbon cutting ceremony launching the Good For You Healthy Hub at Jack Lowe Sr. Elementary School
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With support from TDIndustries and the Jack Lowe family, Texas Health Resources this week opened its first Dallas ISD-based Good For You Healthy Hub at Jack Lowe Sr. Elementary School.
The program provides no-cost fresh produce, healthy staples, and nutrition education to approximately 70–150 families, helping students and their families access wholesome foods right on campus. |
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Dallas College Honored with EAB Technology Pioneer Award for Student Success Innovation |
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Dallas College has been recognized as a national leader in student success innovation, receiving the Technology Pioneer Award at EAB’s Connected25 conference in Orlando, Florida. The award highlights the college’s bold use of technology and data to remove barriers, support students, and drive record outcomes. |
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UTARI Engineers Develop Soft Robotic Exoskeleton to Reduce Workplace Strain |
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Engineers at the University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute (UTARI) have developed a soft robotic exoskeleton, the Pneumatically Actuated Soft Elbow Exoskeleton (PASE), designed to reduce arm and elbow strain during industrial tasks.
Using a lightweight silicone pneumatic actuator, the device assists with lifting, assembly, and drilling, helping prevent musculoskeletal injuries that account for roughly 30% of workplace injuries in the U.S. |
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UTA Expands Brain Health Research with Focus on Navigation and Memory |
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Steven Weisberg, PhD |
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The University of Texas at Arlington is studying how people navigate and remember information to improve cognitive function and combat age-related decline. Assistant Professor Steven Weisberg and collaborators used virtual environments and memory exercises to show that functional brain changes—not growth in size—can improve navigation and recall.
Building on these results, Weisberg plans to test older adults, aiming to develop interventions that help people stay sharper longer. UTA’s state-of-the-art Clinical Imaging Research Center supports this cutting-edge work. |
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UTD Researchers Develop AI-Enhanced Breath Test for Early Lung Cancer Detection |
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Shalini Prasad, PhD & Nikini Subawickrama |
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Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have created a biosensor paired with artificial intelligence to detect lung and thoracic cancers through breath analysis. The device identifies eight volatile organic compounds linked to cancer and analyzes them with AI to detect potential malignancies.
Tested on 67 patients, it accurately identified cancer-related compounds in 90% of confirmed cases, offering a rapid, noninvasive, and potentially affordable screening tool. |
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UNT Health Speech & Hearing Center Opens in Fort Worth |
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The UNT Health Speech & Hearing Center officially opened in Fort Worth, providing expanded access to audiology and speech-language services while offering hands-on learning for graduate students. The new center allows students to train alongside licensed clinicians in an interprofessional setting, collaborating with physicians and other health professionals. |
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UT Southwestern Expands Partnership with Dallas Mavericks as Official Team Doctors |
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UT Southwestern Medical Center has expanded its partnership with the Dallas Mavericks, now serving as the team’s Official Team Doctors in addition to being the Official Health Care Partner. The UT Southwestern logo will appear on pregame shooting shirts and throughout American Airlines Center.
The collaboration will enhance the Mavericks’ health and wellness programs and support community initiatives, including game-day theme nights and the Game Ball Delivery program, where patients from UT Southwestern’s Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center support groups deliver the game ball at home games. |
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FUNDING & MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES |
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CPRIT High-Impact/ High-Risk Research Awards Application closes December 2, 2025 |
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The High-Impact/High-Risk Research Award (HIHRA) supports research that explore the feasibility of high-risk projects that, if successful, would contribute to major new insights into the etiology, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of cancers.
Using this mechanism, the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) intends to support innovative, developmental projects that focus on exceptionally promising topics that are not yet sufficiently mature to compete successfully for more conventional funding.
The HIHRA is expected to provide the foundation and preliminary data for individual or multiple investigator peer-reviewed awards. |
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Fueling the Next Generation of Health Innovators Application closes March 6, 2026 |
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The One Health Incubator is a dynamic partnership between the Innovation Hub and the Health Sciences Center, created to support researchers and technology startups in the life sciences sector. This collaborative platform combines institutional expertise to offer an ecosystem of incubation, mentorship, and strategic connections—tailored specifically for life science innovators.
Startups and researchers benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, specialized resources, and guidance from industry experts. The incubator helps accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative healthcare solutions while fostering valuable relationships with potential partners, investors, and mentors. |
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NIH Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions Program ends January 8, 2027 |
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The purpose of this Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) for Undergraduate-Focused Institutions is to support small scale research grants at institutions that do not receive substantial funding from the NIH, with an emphasis on providing biomedical research experiences primarily for undergraduate students, and enhancing the research environment at applicant institutions. |
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EVENT RECAP |
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BHIANT 4Q25 Recap: Aligning Momentum with a Bigger, Better Texas |
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As we close out 2025, the BHIANT community came together to reflect on a year of progress and to set our sights on an even more ambitious year ahead. The 4th Quarter meeting highlighted how our collective efforts in workforce development, industry partnership, and innovation is positioning North Texas — and the state as a whole — for transformative growth.
Celebrating 2025 Milestones
This year marked measurable progress in building the life science and healthcare talent pipeline:
These successes reflect the power of collaboration among educators, employers, and community partners — and demonstrate BHIANT’s capacity to deliver tangible workforce outcomes.
The State of the State: A Bigger, Better Texas
Looking forward, BHIANT’s mission aligns directly with Governor Greg Abbott’s “Bigger. Better. Texas.” strategic plan — a five-year blueprint for statewide economic growth and workforce development.
The plan emphasizes innovation, target sector growth, and workforce readiness — all central to BHIANT’s work in life sciences and healthcare. As discussed in the meeting, our alignment with the state’s strategy creates a powerful platform for 2026 and beyond.
Key areas of intersection include:
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we move into 2026, BHIANT’s charge is clear: continue building the bridge between education, employment, and innovation — not as a standalone initiative, but as a cornerstone of Texas’ broader growth strategy.
Through intentional partnerships and data-driven action, we will expand access, deepen alignment with state and regional priorities, and strengthen our role in powering the Bigger, Better Texas vision.
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BioNTX Facilities Committee Wraps Up the Year in Irving |
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The BioNTX Facilities Committee closed out the year with an evening celebrating the people and places driving innovation in North Texas. Attendees explored what makes Irving a thriving hub for life sciences, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, then ended the night with cocktails and networking at Reservoir at Toyota Music Factory. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening a success! |
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INDUSTRY EVENTS |
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Upcoming Events & Opportunities |
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Texas Life Science Forum
Join Rice Alliance and BioHouston for the Texas Life Science Forum, which brings together members from industry, emerging life science companies, academic, and investors.
November 11th | Houston, TX |
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eosera® Foundation Pitch Competition
Join eosera at the 2025 eosera® Foundation Pitch Competition to hear aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their groundbreaking concepts to a panel of judges.
November 13th | Fort Worth, TX |
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2025 GEW NTX Official Kickoff Party
Join GEW North Texas as they kick off the week-long celebration of Entrepreneurs across North Texas!
November 16th | Fort Worth, TX |
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Austin MedTech Connect Summit
Join Austin Medtech Connect’s flagship Summit, where the brightest minds in medtech and life sciences converge to collaborate, learn, and build meaningful connections.
November 17th | Austin, TX |
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Building a Business: How to Start, Fund it, and Be Successful
Join Richardson IQ to hear Dr. Voit share how his work at The University of Texas at Dallas helped shape a culture where bold ideas turn into thriving businesses.
November 20th | Richardson, TX |
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BIO BREAK Dallas
Join us in celebrating the thriving life sciences community with McDermott, Deloitte, & BioNTX at BIO BREAK, a happy hour designed for networking and collaboration.
November 20th | Dallas, TX |
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Happy Veterans Day! Today, we honor and thank the brave men and women who have served our country. Your courage, dedication, and sacrifice protect the freedoms we all cherish. |
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November 10, 2025 |
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