Martin Kavšček, PhD, Head of Business Development, introduced the company, which was founded in 2006 by four researchers and now employs over 100 experts. ACIES BIO operates in the key markets of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and nutrition, where, in addition to providing services for global corporations, they also develop their own proprietary technologies, such as the biosynthetic production of vitamins A and B12. Following the presentation, the participants toured the production facilities, witnessing the transition from basic research to industrial-scale production.

The visit concluded with a discussion among committee members regarding the challenges of patent protection in Slovenia. Particular emphasis was placed on whether Slovenia provides a sufficiently supportive environment for biotechnology startups, as well as on patenting, trade secrets, and the retention of knowledge, which is crucial for maintaining competitiveness.

We would like to sincerely thank ACIES BIO and their team for the warm welcome, the guided tour, and the valuable insight into the future of biotechnology!