BioSTL

BioSTL is a St. Louis-based non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant innovation economy through strategic programs. The organization develops comprehensive initiatives including startup creation and investment through BioGenerator, strategic business attraction via GlobalSTL, and the cultivation of physical innovation environments like the Cortex Innovation District. BioSTL’s approach encompasses entrepreneur support, seed and venture capital facilitation, and efforts to build a diverse workforce, underpinned by supportive public policy.

The organization's roots trace back to 2001 with the formation of the Coalition for Plant & Life Sciences, founded at the behest of St. Louis' major regional business organizations and led by Dr. William H. Danforth. This coalition aimed to capitalize on cutting-edge bioscience discoveries from local institutions to create and attract new enterprises, thereby generating jobs within a high-growth 21st-century industry. BioSTL was formally established in September 2011 as a backbone organization to execute this vision.

BioSTL serves the entire St. Louis region, supporting entrepreneurs, innovative bioscience companies, and the broader workforce. Its long-term vision is to ensure the region's enduring significance and dynamism by establishing and securing a robust innovation economy. Through continuous development and implementation of targeted programs, BioSTL strives to elevate St. Louis’ leadership in addressing critical global challenges in agriculture, medicine, and healthcare.