The Future of the Biotech Industry

Biotech leaders are navigating funding constraints, regulatory pressures, and the rising complexity of clinical trials—yet resilience and optimism remain strong across the industry.

We partnered with Savanta to interview nearly 160 biotech executives in North America and the UK, uncovering candid perspectives on what keeps them up at night—and how they see opportunities ahead.

Article Highlights

• 157 biotech leaders were surveyed across North America and the UK, revealing the most pressing industry challenges
• Top concerns include: reduced funding, workforce limitations, regulatory uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and rising clinical trial costs
• 97% of leaders take pride in their contributions to science and healthcare, keeping patients at the center of their work
• 9 out of 10 professionals are actively seeking collaboration, showing the importance of peer networks in navigating biotech challenges
• Innovation drivers such as AI, machine learning, lab automation, and advanced drug delivery systems are seen as critical to biotech’s future resilience
• Despite obstacles, biotech leaders remain optimistic about the future of research, development, and patient impact

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Read the full insights and download the complete report, Biotech Confidential: Overcoming Industry Challenges

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Article Table of Contents

• How are funding and resource challenges affecting biotechs?
• What’s keeping biotech leaders up at night?
• Is the biotech industry withstanding these challenges?
• What is in store for the future of the biotech industry?

The biotech industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. According to our research, 157 biotech leaders across North America and the UK highlighted concerns around reduced VC funding, workforce limitations, regulatory uncertainty, and supply chain disruptions. These headwinds are forcing organizations to adapt rapidly while maintaining their focus on advancing science and patient outcomes.

See a summary below of topics we cover in our report, and download the full report for more.

How are funding and resource challenges affecting biotechs?

Budget pressures remain a defining concern. Leaders shared that constraints can potentially:

• Delay biotech research timelines
• Limit access to critical resources
• Stall innovation and momentum through all stages of drug development
• And ultimately, delay getting discoveries to patients

For many, this challenge isn’t simply about dollars—it’s about sustaining momentum in breakthrough science and ensuring that innovation doesn’t stall in the early stages of development.

What’s keeping biotech leaders up at night?

Research shows that patient impact remains a guiding force. Our research found that 72% of biotech professionals worry about potential risks and adverse events during clinical trials. At the same time, an inspiring 97% of leaders say they take immense pride in their contributions to science and healthcare, often keeping patients’ futures at the heart of their decision-making.

Is the biotech industry withstanding these challenges?

Despite the pressures, biotech leaders aren’t backing down—they’re leaning in. The study revealed that 9 out of 10 professionals are actively seeking collaboration opportunities, with many turning to peers for advice and support.

Leaders also see technology as a critical driver of resilience. From AI and machine learning to lab automation and drug delivery systems, innovation is enabling organizations to reimagine research and accelerate development.

What is in store for the future of the biotech industry?

Amidst uncertainty, one theme stood out: optimism. Senior biotech leaders continue to emphasize that science—not circumstance—will ultimately drive progress. Whether through clinical trial advances, stronger collaborations, or the adoption of new technologies, the industry remains committed to building a future where patient benefit comes first.

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