How PharmaEssentia’s PIRC Became a Deal Flow Hub for Taiwanese Biotech Startups Entering the U.S.

For startups, entering the U.S. market means facing “high entry barriers.” It takes more than advanced technology—you need a trusted first Deal Flow Hub.

Within our accelerator program, the PharmaEssentia Innovation Research Center (PIRC) has become that “first stop.” By connecting biotech startups with investors and local networks, PIRC helps them avoid unnecessary detours and shortens the painful early adjustment period of landing in the U.S.

Boston, a global powerhouse of biotech innovation, is where PIRC is based. With deep roots in East Coast networks and market resources, it provides end-to-end support—from company registration and workspace access to investor introductions.

From a Single Meeting to Long-Term Networks

For startups, the greatest value of joining an accelerator program is reducing the “pain of entering the U.S. market.” Without trusted local partners and resources, companies spend much more time and money on trial and error.

This June, after arriving on the East Coast, we once again brought promising Taiwanese biotech startups to meet with PharmaEssentia leaders on June 18, including Chairman Chien Ching-Liu, Director & CEO Lin Ko-Chung, General Manager Hwang Chan-Kou, and Chief Scientific Officer Lin Li-Ling, for an in-depth exchange on the future of biomedical innovation.

The four startups that joined this visit were:

• iPreg – specializing in reproductive health solutions

• Kura Care – digital health innovation

• Intercontinental Innovation – cross-border biotech development

• CancerFree Biotech – cancer-related biotech solutions

Some had already obtained FDA clearance and were seeking clinical and hospital networks, while others needed support with clinical trials and the right U.S. partnerships.

PharmaEssentia operates under the vision of “Rooted in Taiwan, Reaching the World.” For years, it has helped Taiwanese startups expand globally.

For these startups, connecting with PIRC was not just “one meeting.” It meant:

• Faster market entry: Gaining a quicker understanding of U.S. medical market needs and rules of the game.

• Credible endorsement and fundraising opportunities: With the support of a recognized industry leader, it becomes easier to build trust with hospitals and win over U.S. investors.

This is also the long-term value we aim for in our accelerator programs: not simply bringing startups overseas for one-time exposure, but building ongoing links with international hubs like PIRC so startups can establish sustainable global networks.

Thanks to PIRC, and Thanks to a Cross-Border Partnership

Founded in 2000, PharmaEssentia is a leading Taiwanese biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of novel therapies. With its innovative long-acting protein drugs and advanced small-molecule synthesis technology, the company focuses on rare blood disorders, hepatitis, and cancer, positioning itself as a globally competitive biopharma manufacturer.

In 2022, PharmaEssentia established PIRC in Boston to strengthen Taiwan–U.S. collaboration in drug development and innovation.

We extend our sincere gratitude to PIRC for supporting our East Coast accelerator program for two consecutive years. Thanks to this partnership, Taiwanese startups have found their first foothold in the U.S., opened doors to long-term collaborations, and demonstrated how accelerators can continue to amplify their impact—giving back to Taiwan’s startup ecosystem.