I just read an article from Inside Indiana Business about Indiana and life sciences. Apparently the CEO of J&J (a pretty large, innovative, focused, and successful life science company) asked Governor Daniels a few years ago how Indiana was different from others regarding life sciences. The article concludes:
“So, the report is Indiana is doing well, we are on the right track and we are leaders. And, Mr. Weldon, what differentiates us is … we are collaborating.”
I agree collaboration from universities, business leaders, lawyers, etc. is important. I agree that BioCrossroads (among others) has done a great deal in advancing life science intiatives and opportunities in Indiana.
However, I’m not sure collaboration is a differentiating factor. I’m also pretty sure others aspiring to be in the thick of life sciences are also collaborating.