Kansai Life Science Accelerator Program (KLSAP) 2025 Demo Day

C-Biomex:
Founded in 2017, C-Biomex is a bio-venture dedicated to advancing novel theranostics using its proprietary peptide discovery platform, CUS™. The platform enables identification of peptides with high stability and specificity through a three-step process involving a high-purity library, an innovative screening protocol that minimizes background interactions, and direct sequencing via a proprietary algorithm. C-Biomex focuses on radiopharmaceutical development, positioning itself at the intersection of diagnostics and therapeutics to accelerate peptide-based solutions for global biomedical applications.

GeneMedicine:
GeneMedicine, founded in 2014 and based in Seoul, develops oncolytic viruses engineered to selectively replicate in and kill cancer cells while stimulating an anti-tumor immune response. Its GM-oAd platform is designed for systemic delivery of oncolytic adenoviruses with enhanced tumor specificity, immune activation, and ability to overcome physical tumor barriers. In addition to its therapeutic pipeline, GeneMedicine is expanding into CDMO services and novel drug-delivery systems, building a sustainable and diversified business model.

iXgene:
iXgene is a Japanese life sciences company focused on developing therapies for intractable diseases using genome editing and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology. Its proprietary platform combines advanced genome editing tools, such as CRISPR, with iPS-derived therapeutics targeting indications including malignant brain tumors and brain injury. iXgene collaborates with academic institutions and pharmaceutical partners to translate next-generation regenerative and gene therapies into the clinic, aiming to address high-unmet-need central nervous system diseases. 

Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster: Gateway to Japan's Largest Biocluster Innovation Community 

The Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster (KBIC) was established as part of Kobe’s post-earthquake revitalization strategy and has since grown into Japan’s largest biomedical cluster. Founded in 1998, KBIC now brings together more than 370 companies, research institutes, universities, and specialized hospitals, creating a highly collaborative environment for advancing medical devices, regenerative medicine, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and digital health technologies. Its mission is to accelerate innovation, support commercialization, and strengthen Japan’s life science ecosystem by connecting industry, academia, and clinical institutions.

Located on Port Island with convenient access to Kobe Airport and high-speed rail, KBIC offers a dense concentration of resources including advanced research facilities, hospital and clinical infrastructure, wet labs, shared equipment, and rental lab or office space. Through the Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe (FBRI), the cluster provides extensive support services such as regulatory guidance, startup incubation, business development assistance, and international partnership programs. Together, these assets make KBIC one of Asia’s leading hubs for life science innovation and global collaboration.

>> For more information, please visit https://www.fbri-kobe.org/kbic/english. 

The Kansai Life Science Accelerator Program (KLSAP) was launched in 2020 by the Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster (KBIC), the City of Kobe, and regional industry and academic partners to strengthen the Kansai region’s life science startup ecosystem. The program was created to support emerging entrepreneurs developing innovative technologies in therapeutics, medical devices, diagnostics, and digital health, with the goal of helping them grow into globally competitive companies.

KLSAP provides participating startups with tailored mentorship from industry experts, regulatory and clinical development guidance, business strategy support, and structured opportunities to engage with international investors and partners. Building on its original acceleration track, the program expanded in 2025 with the introduction of a new Entrepreneurship Phase designed to support founders at the earliest stages. Through its combination of technical support, commercialization resources, and global connectivity, KLSAP has become a key platform for advancing high-potential life science innovation from the Kansai region.

The program's sponsors include key companies in the industry including Bayer Yakuhin, Celltrion, Sysmex, and more. 

Life Science Nation and the RESI Conference Series is proud to support this dynamic program and serve as host of KLSAP Demo Day 2025.