European Biotech Leaders Divided on Global Partners
A recent survey of 81 industry executives shows uncertainty regarding the most important future source of innovation partnerships.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Biotech
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European biotech executives are split on whether the U.S. or China will lead as the primary source for future industry partnerships. Results from a survey of 81 firm leaders highlight significant challenges regarding regional competitiveness and access to capital.
Why it matters
The findings underscore how European biotech growth is being stymied by persistent difficulties in securing funding. Executives point to investor risk aversion as a major obstacle, limiting the sector's ability to scale compared to global competitors.
Survey results show Europe received an average competitiveness score of 2.8 on a five-point scale. Additionally, 34 respondents identified capital availability as the primary barrier to dealmaking.
The players
BioIndustry Association
This is a trade association for the U.K. life sciences industry that represents and supports biotechnology firms through advocacy and policy development.
The details
The survey focused on leaders of privately-owned European biotechs with preclinical and early clinical assets. Nearly 80% of respondents identified investor risk aversion as the primary constraint on growth, while 42 executives stated they would prioritize solving access to capital first.
Timeline
The survey results were published on October 7, 2026.
The BioIndustry Association reported on U.K. investor risk aversion in 2025.
The Tech Race
This survey reflects a broader struggle in the European biotech sector to maintain relevance against more liquid capital markets in the U.S. and Asia. It marks a departure from historic European reliance on internal funding, highlighting a urgent need for international partnership models.
For investors and industry participants, this data suggests continued difficulty in securing funding for European-based early-stage assets. The persistent risk aversion noted by executives may influence future venture capital strategies and the availability of capital for new startups.
The takeaway
European biotech firms remain hampered by a lack of capital that is largely attributed to cautious investor behavior. Stakeholders should anticipate continued focus on international partnerships to bridge the funding gap identified by industry leaders.
Further reading
For additional context on industry trends, see the Biotech section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Pharma.
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