Nominations for NSW BioFirst awards open

The annual BioFirst Commercialisation Award rewards outstanding export market efforts by a NSW biotechnology or medical device company which has been assisted under DSRD's BioBusiness programs.

BioBusiness programs include Proof of Concept; Non Research Establishment Costs; High Growth BioBusiness; BioFirst Biotechnology Precinct; and International Marketing and Promotion.

The BioFirst Commercialisation Award is presented to the NSW biotechnology or medical device company which demonstrates the best case for achieving international success with either a technology, product or service.

The winning applicant will need to demonstrate that the Award will significantly enhance their opportunity for international success.

The Award's objective is to assist the winner with their international development plans. Award prizes will include a cash prize toward international business development activities and expert advisory services on commercialisation issues.

The winner of the 2009 BioFirst Commercialisation Award will be selected by a judging panel made up of BioFirst Commercialisation Award supporters including Merck Sharpe and Dohme (Australia); PricewaterhouseCoopers; Allens Arthur Robinson; and Invetech.

Timing and Selection Process

Applications for the 2009 Awards must be received no later than 5 pm Monday 27 April 2009. No extensions will be given. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is received by the DSRD Biotechnology Unit by the above date. No additional or amended information will be accepted. Applications will be judged purely on the information contained in the Application Form. No supplementary documents, such as references, will be admitted. Remember that this is a competition, and it is up to you to promote your company's achievements and excellence as succinctly as possible. Short-listed applicants will be invited to make a presentation to the Judging Panel. The BioFirst Commercialisation Award winner for 2009 will be announced at a special ceremony in July this year. All applicants will be invited to attend this prestigious business function. Application Form and Enquiries

The application form may be downloaded from the bottom of this web page.

Completed applications may be faxed or posted. Emailed applications can not be accepted, as all submissions must be signed off by the company.

Application forms should be mailed to:

• Mr Shane Coombe
• Senior Manager, Manufacturing (BioMedical)
• NSW Department of State and Regional Development
• GPO Box 5477
• SYDNEY NSW 2001

Alternatively, your application form may be faxed to (02) 9338 6676, marked to the attention of Shane Coombe. For enquiries, please phone (02) 9338 6968.