Bayer has inaugurated Bayer Co.Lab Berlin, a state-of-the-art life science incubator located at the company’s Pharmaceuticals Division Global Headquarters Campus. Positioned near leading research and clinical institutions in Berlin, the new facility aims to foster innovation by providing startups with cutting-edge resources and support. The first resident of the incubator, MyoPax GmbH, specializes in muscle regeneration therapies and is a spin-off from the Charité Universitätsmedizin and the Max-Delbrück-Center of the Helmholtz Association.
Part of a Global Network of Innovation Hubs
Bayer Co.Lab Berlin joins Bayer’s network of life science incubators situated in prominent innovation hubs, including Cambridge (USA), Kobe (Japan), and Shanghai (China). The Berlin location provides state-of-the-art laboratories, collaborative working spaces, and tailored support for startups, reinforcing Bayer’s commitment to advancing biotechnology and life sciences globally.
“Biotechnology is a critical driver of Berlin’s pharmaceutical and healthcare industry,” said Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin. “Bayer Co.Lab will help connect science and business, accelerating the development of pharmaceuticals and therapies. This facility strengthens Berlin’s position as a leading hub for healthcare innovation in Germany. We are grateful for Bayer’s confidence in Berlin as a center of science and innovation.”
Supporting Innovation and Collaboration
The establishment of Bayer Co.Lab Berlin is a key milestone in the company’s external innovation strategy. The incubator aligns with Bayer’s vision of fostering open collaboration within the biotechnology ecosystem.
“Bayer Co.Lab Berlin complements the future Berlin Center for Gene and Cell Therapies and serves as a launchpad for Europe’s top scientists and entrepreneurs,” said Dr. Juergen Eckhardt, Head of Business Development & Licensing at Bayer Pharmaceuticals. “This incubator will play a pivotal role in Berlin’s life sciences ecosystem, facilitating the rapid development of groundbreaking therapies.”
Bayer’s global incubator network offers a comprehensive suite of resources to help startups translate their ideas into impactful solutions. At Bayer Co.Lab Berlin, startups will benefit from:
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratory and collaborative workspaces.
- A global community of innovative entrepreneurs.
- Mentorship from Bayer’s multidisciplinary experts.
- Connections to Bayer’s extensive ecosystem of partners.
This approach creates an environment where startups can thrive and expedite the journey from concept to clinical application.
MyoPax GmbH: The First Resident
MyoPax GmbH, the inaugural resident of Bayer Co.Lab Berlin, focuses on developing muscle regeneration therapies using a proprietary muscle stem cell platform. The company’s mission is to advance innovative solutions for patients with muscle disorders.
“We are thrilled to join Bayer Co.Lab Berlin,” said Verena Schöwel-Wolf, CEO of MyoPax. “The incubator offers not only cutting-edge laboratory space but also access to Bayer’s expertise in R&D, manufacturing, and regulatory processes. This partnership will accelerate our goal of delivering effective muscle regeneration therapies.”
A Future Vision for Innovation
Bayer Co.Lab Berlin will transition to the Berlin Center for Gene & Cell Therapies in 2028. This future facility will feature advanced infrastructure, including a cutting-edge incubator and state-of-the-art production capabilities. This move will further solidify Bayer Co.Lab Berlin’s role in strengthening the region’s biotechnology and life sciences ecosystem, providing a sustainable pathway for resident companies to scale their operations.
Advancing Berlin’s Life Sciences Ecosystem
With Bayer Co.Lab Berlin, Bayer is reaffirming its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the advancement of biotechnology. By fostering a thriving community of scientists and entrepreneurs, the incubator not only enhances Berlin’s status as a global healthcare innovation hub but also accelerates the development of transformative therapies.
This initiative exemplifies Bayer’s dedication to creating a brighter future for patients worldwide, demonstrating how strategic investments in innovation can lead to significant advancements in healthcare.
