Presentation of the new MIEM team at the Science Park
Last Thursday, January 22, the Science and Technology Park of Pando was visited by President-elect Yamandú Orsi, together with the Secretary of the Presidency, Alejandro Sánchez, and the Deputy Secretary, Jorge Díaz, who, together with the future Minister of Industry, Energy and Mining, Fernanda Cardona, presented the team that will accompany her in her administration as of March 1.
Orsi, quien supo durante su mandato como Intendente de Canelones, ejercer durante un tiempo el rol de director del Parque Científico, respaldó a la futura ministra Cardona, que destacó "the importance of these spaces as an example of collaboration between research, development and innovation, supported by academia, the business sector and the State.".
From the Science Park, we celebrate this meeting as a new opportunity to consolidate strategic alliances between the government, the academic sector and the productive sector, in pursuit of a more competitive, innovative and sustainable Uruguay.
The reality of projects in Life Sciences. The path from an idea to its realization
In the Life Sciences area, research, development and innovation (R&D&I) projects represent one of the greatest promises for growth and progress. However, this potential goes hand in hand with a series of intrinsic challenges, ranging from the definition of clear objectives to the successful implementation of ideas, including the management of time, resources and risks. This complex but fascinating scenario requires comprehensive strategies to turn initial concepts into concrete results.
The Pando Science and Technology Park has established itself as a key player in this process, offering specialized support that accompanies companies in all stages of their R&D&I projects. With a practical and personalized approach, the Park works in the encounter between science and the productive sector, connecting researchers, technical resources and expertise with the specific needs of the productive sector and society as a whole. This model has allowed complex projects to move forward, overcoming barriers that often hinder innovation.
Life Science projects not only require advanced technical expertise, but also a strategic planning capacity that integrates decision making, taking into account complex information not only from the technical, but also commercial, legal and regulatory, competitive, etc., and the management of risks associated with this type of initiative. Defining achievable objectives, aligning the interests of technological and business partners, articulating the roles of the participants, developing schedules adjusted to technical and market times and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources are critical aspects that make the difference between a successful project and one that falls by the wayside. In this context, the Science Park stands out for its management capacity and experience in articulating diverse interests and leveling expectations among the parties involved, promoting a collaborative environment that is fundamental for success.
A clear example of this synergy is the work carried out with SEGENA CORPORATION S.A., a Uruguayan technology-based company dedicated to the development of innovative immunostimulant molecules, with potential application as active ingredients in drugs for human and animal health applications. With the support of the Science Park, SEGENA has successfully executed co-development projects with academia, particularly with the University of the Republic. In addition, it has used the services of the Park's Technical and Financial Management of Projects, as well as Surveillance and Strategic Intelligence.
Another outstanding case is that of Loto, a pioneering company in Uruguay in the production and marketing of milk kefir-based food products. With the support of the Park, Loto not only developed new products, but also strengthened its innovation strategy through access to key services such as strong technological surveillance, design thinking and prototyping. This venture is preparing to continue growing, stepping firmly on its innovation strategy.
Over the years, the Science Park has accumulated valuable experience in the management of projects related to Life Sciences, addressing challenges with an open innovation approach that combines a strong knowledge base of the project environment, high linkage capabilities and monitoring tools with strategic flexibility. This approach allows adapting the methodology to the specific needs of each company and technology partner, seeking results aligned with their objectives. In addition, the Park offers a working model where companies can access a collaboration network that includes the most relevant organizations of the innovation ecosystem in Uruguay.
In an increasingly globalized world, where scientific and technological advances set the pace for economic development, the Science Park is positioned as an indispensable partner for companies wishing to strengthen their competitiveness based on the incorporation of knowledge. Its ability to anticipate trends, identify opportunities and provide customized solutions makes it a key player in the sustainable development of industry in Uruguay.
Projects related to Life Sciences have an enormous potential impact on our lives, being an engine of innovation and development, especially in a country with a productive matrix such as ours. However, in order to carry out their potential, it is essential to have strategic allies that not only understand the technical complexity of these projects, but also manage to put on the table and analyze the different aspects involved and manage the challenges that these projects entail.
The Pando Science and Technology Park will continue to play a crucial role in this challenge, helping to build an ecosystem where science, technology and innovation work hand in hand to create a positive impact on society.
Generating economic value through knowledge
In a world driven by innovation and constant technological evolution, knowledge has become an invaluable resource for the success of companies. The Science Park is a key player in this scenario, offering a unique space where companies, universities, research centers and public agencies converge to promote innovation and technology transfer and the generation of economic value, in a joint effort for the development of Uruguay. The Park develops its activities mainly in the sectors of biotechnology, nanotechnology, chemistry, pharmaceutical technologies and related areas. This innovation environment created within the Science Park not only represents a physical space, but also a platform that facilitates interaction and collaboration between the different actors of the scientific and technological ecosystem of the region. One of its main tasks lies in the transfer of knowledge, a process that seeks to connect academic knowledge with the specific needs of the productive sector, generating a tangible impact on the competitiveness and growth of companies.
A range of services to promote business development
The Science Park offers companies a wide range of services designed to boost their growth and strengthen their position in the market. Among the highlights of its offerings is the innovative MAI® (Model for Accelerating Innovation), a methodology designed to streamline the incorporation of new techniques in innovation management.
The MAI involves a series of strategic steps to ensure the success of R&D&I projects. It begins with technological intelligence and surveillance, identifying the differentials of possible products. Then, the development of research projects is prepared and managed, an exhaustive screening of results is carried out and an assessment is made with proofs of concept, market studies, clinical and animal tests. Finally, it focuses on commercialization, to generate greater opportunities for the international valorization of the knowledge generated in the country.
The main objective of MAI is to define strategies, study options for value creation and differentiation at early stages, and provide qualified information for decision making in all phases of research, development and innovation projects. This methodology allows companies to monitor with whom they compete, identify the most important issues in their research areas, and find valuable opportunities.
Success stories that exemplify the impact of the PCTP
The Park's work is transformed into success stories that demonstrate the positive impact that the Park has on the environment. business intelligence has on the Uruguayan business fabric.
One of these most recent cases is the company MetabixThe Surveillance and Intelligence service provided by the Science Park has been a strategic tool in the development and protection of their innovative technologies, keeping them abreast of technological advances in their area of activity. Access to these services has allowed them not only to protect their products, but also to develop new technologies, Metabix remains at the forefront of innovation in animal health, consolidating its position in the sector. Another successful case of the Park's services is that of Cibeles Agro. This renowned Uruguayan company, which relies on the technology watch service of the Science Park, has been able to carry out systematized monitoring on specific topics, obtaining fundamental inputs for the anticipation of trends, being able to take measures accordingly.
A key player in the Uruguayan innovation system
The Park has become a key player in the Uruguayan innovation system, contributing significantly to the country's development. Its work generates economic value for companies, boosting productivity, competitiveness and productive diversification. In addition, the Science Park fosters collaboration between different sectors of society, creating a favorable ecosystem for innovation and sustainable development.
Knowledge as an engine of growth
The Park invites companies to become part of its collaboration network, taking advantage of the services and resources available to enhance their growth and contribute to the country's economic development. Innovation is not an option, but a necessity for companies seeking to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding global market. Knowledge is the key to success in the 21st century. The Science Park is positioned as a strategic ally for companies seeking to convert this knowledge into tangible value, driving economic and productive development in Uruguay. Its model of collaboration between companies, universities, research centers and public agencies highlights the transforming power of knowledge, an invaluable resource for building a better sustainable future for all.