Responding to the extraordinary growth of outsourcing in the life science industries and the expanding number of contract research organizations (CROs) in Southern California, BIOCOM launched a CRO Initiative that fosters the creation of an outsourcing community while identifying ways to connect local companies to this expanding network.

"We are very proud to be able to provide real-world value to our industry member companies through this new initiative. By further understanding the needs of our industry members, our goal is to pair them with the best CROs that can help these companies meet their milestones," said Joe Panetta, President and CEO of BIOCOM.

Here is what we're doing for our CRO members:

CRO Committee:
• This committee was formed to build a unique support network between industry companies and CROs. The committee is comprised of representatives that have expertise in discovery, development, manufacturing, clinical research and/or marketing of therapeutic, device and diagnostic products. Committee members help to identify ways that industry members can work with CROs to strategize about their specific needs.

Events:
• Educational Short Courses: These courses provide an overview of all aspects of drug development and are targeted towards educating industry members on how CROs can be your partner.
• Networking Receptions: These mixers are discipline specific and are targeted for industry representatives to meet local CROs that can specifically assist with their company's needs.
• BIOCOM Golf Network (BGN): This event provides an opportunity for life science professionals to get together on a bi-monthly basis to play golf with their peers.

CRO Portal:
• This web portal provides life science companies direct access to BIOCOM's CRO members by searching for specific criteria based upon their needs.
Member-to-Member Program:
• Through this new program, BIOCOM members have the opportunity to offer discounts to their fellow members. This program increases exposure and benefits our Provider-level members while greatly enhancing the discount offering to the overall BIOCOM membership.

Communication:
• LinkedIn Group: BIOCOM created a Life Science Outsourcing Group as a way to facilitate discussion relating to CROs.
• Media visibility: Raising awareness around the CRO community within Southern California.

For more information on how to get involved contact:
Kira Jenkins, Director of Membership
kjenkins@biocom.org
858.455.0300 x117