Welcome to HiveBio: Redefining the Future of Life Sciences
- Meredith Martindale
- Jan 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 15
The future of life sciences should reflect the diversity of the world it serves. At HiveBio, we’re working hard to make that future a reality. HiveBio is the first-of-its-kind virtual program built by and for underserved founders, designed to tackle the unique challenges they face in bringing innovative life science solutions to market.
What is HiveBio?
HiveBio is more than just an accelerator — it’s a catalyst for change in the life sciences industry. Our virtual program empowers minority-owned life science startups by providing tailored resources, mentorship, and training. Specifically designed for founders who identify as one or more of the following: First Generation, Female, Nonbinary, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, Indigenous, or Immigrant. HiveBio creates a pathway for innovators who can often be overlooked in biotech.
Our program is the result of a powerful collaboration between HelaPlex, LaunchBio, and WorldUpstart. Together, we bring over 40 years of expertise to help underserved founders scale their ideas into impactful, sustainable businesses. After two years in stealth mode, the team is excited to bring HiveBio to life.
Who is the Team Behind HiveBio?
HiveBio is led by an exceptional team of experts in the life sciences and startup ecosystem and is the vision of Dr. Tia Lyles-Williams, a trailblazing biotech entrepreneur and leader.
Dr. Lyles-Williams has founded three startups, raised over $2.5M USD, and has received numerous accolades and awards, including being named a Forbes NEXT 1000 entrepreneur and a "Unicorn" by Philadelphia Magazine. Her deep understanding of the barriers faced by underrepresented founders inspired her to create HiveBio, and together with her team, she’s committed to breaking down systemic barriers in the biotech ecosystem
HiveBio’s team includes strategic partners who enhance the program with their expertise:
LaunchBio: Powers HiveBio’s branding and marketing while integrating their community of 18,000+ life science innovators.
WorldUpstart: Provides curriculum development and global startup recruitment.
TurboSBIR: Offers support for SBIR/STTR grant writing to help founders secure crucial non-dilutive funding.
LBV Ventures: Guides founders through angel/VC fundraising and facilitates partnerships with Big Pharma for licensing opportunities.
What Makes HiveBio Unique?
HiveBio offers a comprehensive virtual accelerator program that combines tailored access, expert mentorship, and a strong community to empower life science innovators. It includes:
Tailored Mentorship: Access to biotech experts who provide guidance on commercialization, fundraising, and regulatory landscapes.
Hands-On Training: A curriculum designed specifically for the life sciences industry, helping founders refine business strategies, prepare for FDA approvals, and master investor communications.
Community Support: A collaborative ecosystem where founders connect with mentors, peers, and investors to foster growth.
HiveBio’s all-in-one platform includes:
Scheduling tools for group sessions and mentoring.
Gamification features to simplify complex concepts like pitch deck development.
Messaging tools to connect cohort members with mentors and coaches.
A deal room to streamline creating key business documents.
Through these features and more, HiveBio bridges the structural gaps in biotech leadership, unlocking opportunities for innovation that benefit everyone.
How Can You Get Involved with HiveBio?
The launch of our first application cycle for the inaugural cohort is just around the corner, and we’re inviting life science founders and supporters to join us in this transformative journey. If you’re an entrepreneur from an underserved community with a bold idea or a growing startup, this is your opportunity to gain access to tailored mentorship, resources, and a powerful network.
We’ll also post updates, resources, and inspiring stories from our community here. Whether you’re looking to apply, want to support our mission, or are eager to collaborate, we’re thrilled to have you with us.