📍 Venue: SISTER – Renold Building, 32a Altrincham Street, Manchester, M1 7JR
How do we turn world-leading biological research into breakthrough therapies, transformative companies and real-world impact?
This Thursday Gathering, delivered in partnership with the Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA), explores its Sculpting Innate Immunity Opportunity Space, bringing together researchers, founders and innovators at the forefront of one of the most exciting areas of modern science. Together, we'll explore how bold research moves beyond the lab through collaboration, investment and commercialisation.
The evening's headline panel, Turning Complex Biology into Commercial Reality, features voices from ARIA, academia and the startup ecosystem discussing the opportunities and challenges of translating cutting-edge biology into innovations that could reshape the future of healthcare.
In partnership with Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA)

Our Thursday Gatherings are for you to make serendipitous connections and make things happen! Step into a space where every conversation could spark something new. Enjoy music, refreshments, and a lively atmosphere designed to bring people together, whether you’re exchanging ideas, discovering collaborators, or simply sharing a laugh. This is the perfect moment to unwind, connect, and let serendipity guide your evening.
Introduction from Venture Café.
Introduction from ARIA.
Join our Lightning Pitch session where you’ve got just 60 seconds to introduce yourself and share your business or idea with the room. It’s fast, fun, and a brilliant way to meet fellow founders, spark conversations and get your idea out into the Manchester startup community.
🎟️ If you are interested in pitching, please pick up a raffle number from the registration desk for a chance to be selected to pitch!
From breakthrough discovery to real-world impact, the path from cutting-edge biology to successful commercial innovation is rarely straightforward. This panel brings together perspectives from ARIA, leading academic researchers and pioneering founders to explore what it takes to translate complex biological science into products, companies and solutions with the potential to transform society.
Together, they'll discuss the challenges of moving from the laboratory to the marketplace, the role of mission-driven funding and collaboration, and how researchers, entrepreneurs and investors can work together to accelerate innovation in one of the world's most exciting fields.

