In this paper, you are supposed to present an essay exploring the networks and alliances in the biotech industry covering the following aspects:

• Explain biotechnology industry, its main activities, largest sector in terms of industry value and the key players.
• Potential sources of external funding
• Reason and process for collaboration with external partners for innovation  

MGT2440 INDIVIDUAL ESSAY ASSESSMENT Title:

Networks and alliances in biotechnology Biotechnology industry are among the industries that have the highest rates of alliance formation. In 1988, Ernest & Young reported that more than 70% of the US biotechnology firms were involved in strategic alliances and on average, each firm had 10 partners. Indeed, OECD statistics also show that based on a literature-based survey (reports from the newspaper, trade journals, etc.), the number of alliances has increased from 45 in 1990 to 526 in 2006. Therefore, in this essay assignment, I would like you to explore further the networks and alliances in the biotech industry.

In your essay, please answer the following research questions:

1. Describe the biotechnology industry. What are the main activities of the industry? Which sector/segment of the industry is the largest in terms of industry value? Who are the key players?

2. What are the potential sources of external funding for biotechnology start-ups?

3. Why do biotechnology firms collaborate with external partners for innovation?

4. How do biotechnology firms choose their innovation partners?