On May 16 BFTP will present the annual i xchange—northeastern Pennsylvania's premier business networking event. i xchange combines executive networking, a national keynote speaker, and the presentation of the BFTP Innovation Awards. Last year's event attracted more than 600 business and community leaders.

Daniel Burrus—one of the world's leading technology forecasters and strategists—will be this year's keynote speaker. He specializes in the creative application and future impact of global innovations in science and technology. His predictions are utilized by many Fortune 500 companies, including GE, IBM, Microsoft, Motorola and DuPont. He has authored six books, including the highly acclaimed Technotrends.

i xchange will also feature the 12th Annual Northeastern Pennsylvania Innovation Awards, honoring individuals and companies that exemplify achievement and innovation in the core tenets of the Ben Franklin program:

• Developing early-stage, technology-oriented companies
• Helping established manufacturers creatively apply new technologies and business practices
• Promoting an innovative community-wide infrastructure

Tickets are $45 in advance or $50 the day of the event.

Click here for information and to register.

For additional information, contact ixchange@nep.benfranklin.org or 610.758.5200.

On April 27-28, Lehigh University is hosting a free conference focusing on industry and university partnerships in bioscience and biotechnology. The event is co-sponsored by BFTP, the Life Sciences Greenhouse of Central PA (LSGPA) and the Southside Bethlehem Keystone Innovation Zone.

Topics will include innovations in licensing strategies, co-development relationships, university involvement in early stage corporate formation, and financing strategies that can bridge public funds, venture capital and industrial partners. Among the presenters and speakers are:

• Chad Paul, Chief Executive Officer of BFTP Northeast
• Mel Billingsley, President and CEO, LSGPA
• Dennis Yablonsky, Secretary, PA DCED
• Jim Greenwood, President, Biotechnology Industry Organization
• Dr. Günter Blobel, 1999 Nobel Laureate in Medicine
• Mark Gumz, COO, Olympus America

For more information about FREE conference, click here.