Key points

  • Translating scientific advances into accessible cancer treatments remains a critical hurdle across Europe
  • Microalgae-based biomanufacturing offers a sustainable pathway for antibody and biologic production
  • Scaling cell therapy beyond bespoke, patient-specific treatments to standardised, ready-made options could expand patient reach significantly
  • Generative chemistry and AI unlock RNA as a therapeutic target previously out of reach for conventional drug discovery
  • Europe's research strength contrasts with obstacles in company growth: funding gaps, infrastructure limitations, and ecosystem maturity
  • Founders share practical insights on converting research into viable enterprises and how Women TechEU extends value beyond financial support

Three innovators building deep-tech cancer companies in France gathered for a candid discussion on the realities of scaling biotech ventures. Muriel Bardor of Alga Biologics, Inna Menkova of Allogenica, and Emily Fang of InFocus Therapeutics each pursue distinct approaches to oncology: sustainable microalgae-based manufacturing for antibodies, allogeneic "off-the-shelf" T-cell therapies, and AI-powered generative chemistry to engineer small molecules targeting RNA directly.

The roundtable, held as part of the Women TechEU initiative, explored the chasm separating promising laboratory science from treatments reaching patients in Europe. The conversation moved beyond technical details to examine the harder realities: the moments when founders questioned their path, where Europe's ecosystem provides genuine advantage, and where systemic friction slows progress. The founders reflected on what they wish they had known before converting their research into commercial enterprises.

Projecting five to ten years forward, the discussion considered which developments could most meaningfully improve cancer patient outcomes. The founders also reflected on how the Women TechEU programme shaped their trajectories as entrepreneurs—not merely through grant funding, but through enhanced credibility, expanded networks, and pathways to subsequent growth stages.

About Women TechEU

Women TechEU is an EU-backed initiative designed to support female founders leading deep-tech startups across Europe. The programme prioritises inclusive innovation by backing women-led ventures, particularly in underrepresented deep-tech sectors and regions across the continent. The consortium behind the scheme operates on the principle that diversity strengthens innovation and aims to equip women in deep tech with expanded opportunities, resources, and backing to establish globally competitive companies.

From 2026 through 2028, the consortium will operate a rolling application process with four submission deadlines annually. A rigorous selection procedure will identify 160 beneficiaries in total. Selected companies receive €75k in non-dilutive grants alongside a customised support package encompassing mentoring, training, specialist advice, introductions to potential partners and investors, and assistance accessing additional European Innovation Council funding and programmes.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the views of the authors and does not necessarily represent the position of the European Union or the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority accepts responsibility for the content.

Source: EU-Startups