The DDL Incubator
Investing in inhalation innovation
9am – 12pm, Wednesday 9th December 2026
Pentland Auditorium, Edinburgh International Conference Centre
Sourcing and securing the right finance option to help accelerate your technology from bench to market can be unnerving.
As an added value benefit to those attending DDL2026 in person, we are delivering a session dedicated to exploring the funding options available to start-ups, biotech founders and similar stakeholders.
Immersive presentations from industry recognised experts will cover four key topics: grants, bootstrapping, venture capital and corporate partnerships, explaining what ‘investor ready’ really means.
The event will then feature several short pitches from selected attendees with feedback from our expert panel. The session will also offer an opportunity for structured meetings and personalised networking with the finance experts, along with representatives from other stakeholders including CROs and CDMOs. All based on your profile and interests.
YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO PITCH:
Calling all innovators and recent start-ups:
It’s time to pitch your respiratory project to the best in the business.
This is your opportunity to pitch your respiratory project to a panel of seasoned experts in your field. From IP protection and financing to devices and commercialisation, and everything in between.
YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO REGISTER:
Join our community of the newest and brightest respiratory businesses and attend this event as a delegate.
The session is free to attend, but registration is required for entry. You must also be registered to attend the main DDL2026 Conference.
08:00 - 09:15 |
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Registration and refreshments Collect your name badge from the EICC foyer |
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09:15 |
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Welcome & Framing
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09:25 |
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Presentations followed by moderated Q&A, covering different funding options |
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Early-stage funding and angel investment Joanne Kelley |
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Bootstrapping, VC and funding pathways |
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Corporate partnering, investment and acquisition |
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10:25 |
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Company Pitches |
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11:25 |
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Panel Reflections From:
Our Moderators: |
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11:35 |
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Networking Refreshment Break (concludes the session) |
Michelle Dawson, Fortrea
Peter Hirst, Independent Consultant
