Transatlantic ties between Saxony/Germany and Texas/USA steadily tightened in 2024, with meet-ups highlighting the ‘can do’ attitude which unites both of these forward-looking life science hubs.

The life science-related connections between Germany and the United States grew considerably in 2024, starting at the BIO International Convention in San Diego in June. At the bustling German pavilion, visitors learned about Saxony’s flourishing life science ecosystem, including Leipzig’s Medical Forge accelerator program for innovative start-ups. The Texan booth was right across the aisle, giving both teams the chance to get to know each other ahead of the Saxons’ summer visit to the Lone Star State.
That trip offered an exciting opportunity to compare notes for the first time. Because Leipzig and Houston aren’t just sister cities: They are growing healthcare hubs that are committed to creating life science ecosystems which help improve patients’ lives. The German delegation experienced a whirlwind of get-togethers and behind-the-scenes tours, including at the Rice Institute for Global Health Technology and Texas Medical Center. Participants from both countries quickly discovered their similar ‘can do’ attitude when it comes to shaping the future of the life sciences, be that in the fields of digital health, biotechnology or medical technology.
So there was a lot of first-name basis going on by the time the Germans and Americans met up again in Amsterdam. The inaugural HLTH Europe conference offered the chance to deepen existing connections – and continue to exchange insights and ideas. On the Saxon side, five innovative start-ups from Medical Forge’s recent batch showcased their work, while the Texans explained how they are building BioBridges between countries. After four days of productive partnering meetings, workshops, and networking events, participants from both sides of the pond went home with a suitcase full of inspiring new ideas – and the knowledge that they are not doing this work alone.