Karnataka biosciences companies explore partnerships with Montana

The Bengaluru leg of the visit of Montana Governor Greg Gianforte brought together a diverse group of Indian biotechnology, biopharmaceutical, medtech, genomics, bio-manufacturing, precision medicine and digital health companies, with several expressing interest in exploring research, technology, clinical development, manufacturing and market-access opportunities with Montana, USA.

The CXO-level roundtable, facilitated by the Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE), was held as part of Governor Gianforte’s India visit on October 7–8. The Montana delegation includes senior state officials, economic development representatives, private-sector companies and representatives from Montana State University. The interaction provided Indian companies an opportunity to understand Montana’s capabilities in bioscience research, biopharmaceutical manufacturing, academia and technology development, and identify areas for potential collaboration.

The Indian participation reflected the breadth of Karnataka’s biosciences ecosystem. Immuneel Therapeutics, represented by its corporate development and scientific leadership, highlighted its work in CAR-T therapies and its interest in exploring opportunities with the Montana ecosystem.

Iom Bioworks presented its work on engineered gut microbes and their potential application in cancer recovery. The company’s research could open avenues for collaboration in microbiome research, translational science and clinical development.

Virion Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company, is developing novel T-cell-based immunotherapies that use proprietary checkpoint modifiers to restore, enhance, broaden and sustain immune responses, with the objective of developing treatments for cancer and chronic infectious diseases. The company is looking at opportunities to advance its translational and clinical research through international collaborations.

In the medical technology space, Cardiotrack highlighted its AI-powered portable electrocardiogram devices and telemedicine platform aimed at making early heart-disease detection more affordable and accessible across India. Its combination of medical devices, digital health and artificial intelligence presents potential opportunities for technology and healthcare collaborations in the US.

BrainSight AI presented its functional brain-mapping technology designed to provide clinicians with additional information during neurological procedures and treatments. The company is preparing for entry into the US market and is exploring clinical research collaborations, making academic and healthcare institutions in the US a potential avenue for expansion.

The genomics and life-sciences manufacturing segment was represented by Azooka Labs, a Bengaluru-based biotechnology startup incubated at the Indian Institute of Science. The company develops genomic workflow solutions, sustainable DNA/RNA sample-collection kits and non-toxic bio-reagents. Its interest in international partnerships aligns with the growing need for sustainable and accessible genomic technologies.

Laurus Bio brought expertise in microbial precision fermentation and integrated bio-manufacturing. As a contract development and manufacturing organisation, the company works across sectors including biopharma, alternative proteins, personal care and food nutrition, creating potential opportunities for collaboration with Montana companies and research institutions in advanced biomanufacturing.

In cell therapy and regenerative medicine, Eyestem is developing therapies for retinal diseases and is conducting Phase II clinical trials in India. The company’s interest in international clinical and research partnerships could create opportunities to connect with Montana’s academic and healthcare ecosystem.

Prana Xenotransplants (Prana XT) presented its work on addressing the critical shortage of human organs through gene-edited porcine organ transplantation. Its programme integrates gene editing, cloning and surgical technologies and spans research, regulatory development and clinical readiness. Collaboration with US academic and research institutions could support the company’s efforts to advance this emerging field.

The roundtable also highlighted opportunities beyond conventional healthcare. Devigere Biosolutions is developing clean-label, sustainable and functional protein concentrates from Indian pulses such as mung bean and cowpea for applications in functional foods, nutraceuticals, sports nutrition and skincare. The company's work could complement Montana’s interests in agriculture, food innovation and value-added bioproducts.

String Bio showcased its bio-manufacturing capabilities, including products for agriculture and bio-stimulants, highlighting the potential intersection between biotechnology, agriculture and sustainable production.

The academic and incubation ecosystem was represented by the dhaRti BioNEST Incubation Centre at IIT Dharwad, a research and technology incubator focused on translating academic R&D into commercial life-science solutions. The centre provides another potential bridge between Indian research institutions and Montana’s universities and innovation ecosystem.

Akshaisarathi Health Care Solutions presented its multidisciplinary approach to healthcare innovation, bringing together medical consultants, IT professionals, data analysts, pharmaceutical chemists and biotechnologists to develop solutions for personalised and precision medicine.

Environmental biotechnology and climate-related applications were also part of the discussion. Aspalli Green Sustainable Ecosystem, based in Raichur, Karnataka, showcased its patented Seed Womb technology for land restoration and reforestation. The technology is designed to improve survival rates and accelerate tree growth while reducing water requirements, creating potential areas of collaboration around sustainable land restoration, afforestation and environmental innovation.

The range of companies participating in the roundtable demonstrated that the potential India–Montana relationship extends well beyond conventional biotechnology. From CAR-T and cancer immunotherapy to microbiome science, precision medicine, brain mapping, genomics, cell therapy, xenotransplantation, precision fermentation, functional proteins, agricultural biotechnology and reforestation, Indian companies identified multiple areas where Montana’s academic, research and business ecosystem could support their international growth.

For the participating Indian companies, Montana offers potential access to research institutions, universities, clinical networks, technology partners and the wider US innovation ecosystem. In turn, the engagement provides Montana with an opportunity to connect with one of India’s most dynamic life-sciences clusters and companies developing technologies for global markets.

The Bengaluru interaction therefore marked a first step towards converting the Governor’s trade mission into specific business, research and technology partnerships. The companies expressed interest in taking discussions forward with Montana-based organisations, particularly around joint research, clinical studies, technology development, biomanufacturing, academic partnerships and entry into the US market.

Narayan Kulkarni

narayan.kulkarni@mmactiv.com