Great science is only part of the equation when it comes to building a successful company. Join us for an inside look at the decisions innovators face as they move from product development to building and growing a business. Hear from professionals in law, accounting, and banking as they share insights and advice on navigating common challenges that life science companies encounter along the way.

Topics will include company formation, intellectual property, fundraising readiness, financial planning, banking relationships, and growth strategy—providing practical knowledge to help you better understand what it takes to turn innovation into a successful business. 

Note: Each ticket includes heavy appetizers and two drink vouchers.

Program 

5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Check in
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  Program
7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.  Q&A
7:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.  Networking

Speaker Bios

Kimberly Brothers, Medical Writer at Castle Biosciences

Kimberly is a medical writer for Castle Biosciences and is passionate about advancing innovative therapies or tests that improve patient outcomes. Her research experience spans a broad range of therapeutic areas, including Oncology, Orthopaedic Surgery, Ophthalmology, Infectious Disease, and Dermatology. Kimberly has authored multiple publications and secured grant funding in both Ophthalmology and Orthopaedic Surgery. She earned her PhD in biomedical sciences from the University of Maine and completed her postdoctoral fellowship in Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh. She is an active Women In Bio member with a strong desire to learn more about the business side of industry.

Josh Higgins, Branch Manager and Assistant Vice President at Huntington National Bank

With eight years of experience at Huntington, Josh Higgins has worked across both the Columbus and Pittsburgh markets, playing a key role in opening new branch locations and expanding the bank’s community presence. He currently serves clients in Pittsburgh’s Strip District, where he continues to focus on relationship-building and growth. Josh is passionate about helping small businesses succeed. He takes pride in guiding business owners as they establish, grow, and ultimately meet and exceed their financial goals. His hands-on approach and commitment to client success make him a trusted partner in the communities he serves.

Lisa Orucevic, Associate at Dentons Cohen & Grigsby

Lisa is an associate in the corporate practice group at Dentons, focusing on mergers, acquisitions, and dispositions, corporate governance, commercial contracts, venture technology, and corporate succession planning. Lisa’s transactional work includes conducting due diligence investigations, drafting transaction documents, managing transaction logistics, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts, and assisting with corporate governance matters, such as entity formations, board and shareholder resolutions, and corporate reorganizations. Lisa represents a wide variety of clients, spanning multinational and Fortune 500 companies to smaller, local businesses.

Amber Trusik, Transaction Advisory and Valuation Manager at Wilke CPAs & Advisors, LLP

Amber is the Transaction Advisory and Valuation Manager at Wilke CPAs & Advisors, LLP, where she focuses on business valuations, mergers and acquisitions, and transaction advisory services. Her work spans due diligence, financial analysis, and valuation engagements for a range of clients from early-stage companies to established businesses. Amber holds an MBA in finance from Johns Hopkins University and is an Accredited Business Valuation (ABV) professional credentialed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Pricing Information

• Members/Guests: $15
• Non-members*: $25

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Please read WIB's Code of Conduct and Refund Policy.

Note: A confirmation email will be sent after registration has been completed. 

Parking Information

Paid parking is available at nearby public garages

Public Transit Information

Downtown public transit is available.

Accessibility Accommodations

Location is fully accessible.