Applications to pitch at the 2026 forum open on Monday, 2 February.
Delivered through a dynamic live feedback format, the forum is a new way to connect with industry professionals representing global biotech and investment companies.
Presenters will gain direct insight into the commercialisation potential of their work in addition to honing industry-oriented pitch. Whether you’re presenting a bench-top discovery or a preclinical start-up, panellists will provide a wealth of strategic approaches to build your research translation roadmap.
This full day event features networking intervals and 5 tailored sessions for pitches in:
– Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders
– Neurodegeneration & CNS
– Oncology
– Inflammation
– Infectious Diseases
FAQs
I want to pitch at the forum, but I have confidentiality concerns around sharing my data with a wide audience.
All material presented at the forum and in the application must be non-confidential. Pitches should give a high-level overview of the invention without disclosing targets, structures etc. Please discuss your application with your organisation’s tech transfer or commercialisation team prior to submission. If you’re still unsure, please contact us to discuss your application further.
Are there any resources available to presenters in the lead up to the forum?
Presenters will be invited to attend a pre-forum webinar session led by UNSW Founders. We will additionally provide a pitch template and general guidance on best practices when addressing an industry audience.
Do I need to attend the full-day event if I’m only pitching in one session?
Presenters are strongly encouraged to attend the forum for the full day to learn more from the diverse panels and participate in the networking sessions. If you are unable to attend for the full day, please contact us to discuss scheduling your pitch.
My research is early stage and I’m not sure if it’s relevant to the forum.
Pitches can be early stage, pre-IP research, or more established IP-protected projects. Please ensure that no confidential materials are included in your application or pitch.
I’ll be visiting from a regional university to pitch at the forum. Do you offer financial or travel support?
Travel bursaries are available for presenters from regional Universities, including Wollongong and Newcastle to support travel and accommodation expenses. To apply for a travel bursary, please contact us.
My project does not fit in one of the five therapeutic areas. Am I still eligible to pitch?
You can select “other” if your projects is focused on the discovery of therapeutics that falls outside the five established categories. Every panel at DDF 2025 is adjudicated by panellists with a broad range of experience who will be able to give you relevant feedback on your project regardless of its classification.
