Welcome to this week’s Midweek Memo. In this issue, read about cannabis innovation in Comox Valley, a new home for HiBoop, and a founder’s thoughts on taking the reins.

Now onto today’s briefing. It’s 804 words: a three-minute read.

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What do rabbits have to do with cancer research?

Unless you specialize in bioscience, oncology, or something of the like, I’m willing to bet you didn’t know that rabbit antibodies are being investigated for use in cancer treatment.

Last week, Victoria-based ImmunoPrecise Antibodies (IPA) shared news of clinical progress with rabbit monoclonal antibodies designed and developed with the company’s B Cell Select platform. The work was performed on behalf of Seattle’s OncoResponse, a clinical-stage biotech company developing cancer immunotherapies.

IPA explained that rabbit monoclonal antibody therapeutics are becoming increasingly popular for human therapeutic use.

"At ImmunoPrecise Antibodies, our mission is not just to develop antibodies, but to redefine what’s possible in therapeutic interventions," said Dr. Jennifer Bath, president and CEO of IPA. "Our innovative platform, built on years of expertise, has consistently delivered antibodies with superior qualities, many of which are now advancing in clinical trials. This reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation and our strategic advantage in the market. We are proud to support our clients in bringing groundbreaking, life-changing treatments to patients around the world, reinforcing the long-term value of our technologies."

The B Cell Select platform has been used in the design and discovery of antibodies that have advanced to clinical stages for IPA’s clients. IPA’s technology preserves the natural structure of the antibodies, which in turn supports how the functioning of the therapies in a clinical setting.

SPONSORED BY COAST, AN INITIATIVE OF SOUTH ISLAND PROSPERITY PARTNERSHIP

Apply now for COAST Pitchfest

Early-stage ocean tech entrepreneurs, apply now for COAST Pitchfest, presented by Seaspan, on October 16, 2024, in Victoria! Compete for a $10,000 cash prize, a one-year COAST Navigator membership, and the chance to connect with investors. Showcase your innovation and make your mark in the ocean tech industry!

📰 More Victoria innovation news

🌸 I can buy my own flowers: Aurora Cannabis, a Canadian medical cannabis company, announced advancements in auto-flowering that could impact cannabis cultivation. The company, headquartered company in Edmonton, operates their Aurora Coast research facility in Comox Valley.

🏡 I’m coming home: Mental healthtech company HiBoop shared news of their new location at the Kwench coworking space in Victoria and invited others to join them at the open house on Friday.

🐶 Who let the dogs out: Alexander von Kaldenberg, founder and CEO of Victoria’s GoChip Animal Technology, put pen to paper with his thoughts on the importance of staying responsible as a founder and not letting expert opinions overpower you.

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🕴️Tech jobs of the week

Find your next career:

• Azure Cloud Engineer at EY

• Principal Software Engineer at Affirm

• Applied Research Technologist II at Camosun College

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📅 Upcoming events

October 17 | Five-Week Series - Climate Resilience for Technical Professionals

This workshop series blends knowledge from the technical and social sciences, including systems engineering, environmental philosophy, climate psychology, and deep ecology. The sessions will provide you with practical tools and frameworks for embedding climate action into your daily actions and decisions.

Certificates of completion are available for participants who complete at least four to five workshops. This workshop series can be counted towards engineering continuing education hours.

October 23-34 | 18th Annual State of the Island Economic Summit

Join an action-packed two-day journey of learning, inspiration, and connection. The annual summit is a must-attend event for business owners, community leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs in the region. From thought-provoking action lab workshops and breakout sessions to dynamic networking opportunities, engage and collaborate with like-minded individuals that share your vision for Vancouver Island’s economic future.

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