OBI Client Company Recent Wins
- Caravel Bio has received a $7.8M NSF Award to fund product development and scale-up using their cell-free directed evolution platform. Over the next three years, Caravel will lead a team of collaborators from Caltech, Oregon State University, Rutgers University, and Avery Bio to build products in DNA synthesis, animal health, and non-pollutive chemical catalysis. You can learn more by reading Caravel’s press release here.
- This month, Thaena closed a Seed fundraising round led by Portland Seed Fund, representing the conversion of a SAFE supported by local investors including Elevate Capital, ONAMI, and PSF. The company also published its second patent protecting its first-of-its-kind human-derived postbiotic supplement. To keep up with growing demand, Thaena has expanded its team with top regional talent, including several former Intel engineers. With a recent valuation increase from $6M to $10M and projected Q3 revenue growth of 25% over Q2, Thaena is entering its next chapter of direct-to-consumer launch and scale.
Learn more about OBI’s 30 startups by visiting our website!
OBI at Bend Venture Conference: Showcasing Oregon’s Bioscience Momentum
OBI was proud to take part in this year’s Bend Venture Conference (BVC), organized by EDCO – Economic Development for Central Oregon. The conference brought together innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors from across the state for two days of connection and inspiration.
Life sciences had a strong presence at this year’s event, featuring standout pitches from Neurosom™ and SokoLife, both based in Eugene. SokoLife earned top honors as the Early Stage Winner, a recognition that highlights the growing strength of Oregon’s bioscience startup ecosystem.
BVC continues to serve as a vital platform for collaboration, visibility, and investment in the region’s most promising ventures. OBI is proud to celebrate and support these achievements as part of our shared mission to advance life science innovation in Oregon.
OBI Brings Oregon’s Bioscience Community Together at BVC
OBI’s Accelerate Biotech Networking Lunch was a highlight of Bend Venture Conference week, filling Willamette Valley Vineyards – Bend with energy, conversation, and collaboration. Entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders came together between BVC sessions to share ideas, build connections, and celebrate the growing impact of Oregon’s bioscience and digital health sectors.
The room buzzed with conversation, and guests raved about the food, wine, and beautiful setting. A huge thank-you to our sponsors, The Biotech Collective and Tonkon Torp LLP, whose partnership helped make the event a success.
Moments like this capture the spirit of OBI’s mission to connect innovators, strengthen collaboration, and help Oregon’s life science community continue to thrive.
Join the Club:
OBI BioMembership Launches January 2026
Starting January 2026, a new way to belong to the OBI community is taking shape. OBI BioMembership gives innovators, founders, and bioscience professionals the chance to stay connected to the people, programs, and energy that make OBI the hub of Oregon’s life science ecosystem.
No lab lease required, just a passion for what’s next.
Membership details and registration coming soon. Stay tuned to be among the first to join!
Dedicated Desks Now Available in OBI’s Co-Working Space
Due to high demand, OBI is excited to announce that dedicated desk leases in our co-working space are once again available. These desks offer a professional, collaborative environment ideal for biotech innovators looking for a productive place to work and connect with like-minded professionals.
To learn more about the available spaces and how they can support your company’s growth, visit our facilities page to fill out the inquiry form at the bottom. Don’t miss this opportunity to become part of our thriving biotech community!
Upcoming Events at OBI
Accelerate Biotech Happy Hour
Thursday, November 6th | 5:30 p.m. -7:00 p.m.
Reserve Your Free Ticket Now
Upcoming Community Events
George Fox Career Fair
Friday, November 7th | 5:00 pm-6:30 pm
Register Here