Frank van der Zanden: Flexible rental terms
Helmond Biotech Materials Hub (HBH) is opening up fresh opportunities for innovation in biomedical materials and therapies. Its ‘Living Lab’ is designed to support startups in Life Sciences and Health, enabling them to turn groundbreaking biomedical ideas into reality.
Founded by healthcare entrepreneur Frank van der Zanden and Professor Patricia Dankers, HBH serves as a dynamic hub for nurturing new biomedical businesses within a collaborative community.
Smart BioMaterials Consortium (SBMC) plays an active role in this innovative incubator based in Helmond. Dedicated to fostering a thriving ecosystem for biomaterials in the Brainport region, SBMC members like Vivolta and UPyTher provide essential expertise and skills. Their contributions ensure that the biomaterials living lab becomes a fertile ground where multiple startups can grow and succeed.
A Place for Innovation
“Startups often struggle to access the facilities they need,” says co-founder Frank van der Zanden. “At HBH, we remove these barriers. We provide flexible, high-tech cleanrooms and laboratories that meet rigorous industry standards such as ISO 13485 and EU-GMP. These facilities are offered on flexible rental terms, allowing startups to channel more resources into product development rather than infrastructure. Our goal is to help startups succeed by giving them the tools and environment to grow. From early ideas to clinical trials, we’re here to support their journey.”
The Living Lab
“HBH is more than just a building – it’s a community,” explains co-founder Patricia Dankers. “It’s a ‘Living Lab’ where experts from various fields come together to innovate. Startups don’t just gain access to facilities; they become part of a network of mentors, technical advisors, and potential partners. This exchange of knowledge and ideas is how real innovation happens.”
HBH’s Living Lab is a pivotal space where startups in biomedical materials and material-based therapies can access:
- State-of-the-art physical facilities, including laboratories and cleanrooms
- Expert guidance in biomedical product development
- GMP-compliant production processes
- Comprehensive support to accelerate product development
Building a Thriving Ecosystem
“We fully support HBH,” says Jan Rietsema, CEO of Smart BioMaterials Consortium (SBMC). “In addition to the facilities SBMC offers for the validation and production of biomedical materials, a good ecosystem also requires affordable housing for startups that want to stand on their own feet. The Living Lab offers an environment that aligns perfectly with what we can provide. Sharing knowledge is one of our top priorities, which is why I’m delighted that SBMC members like Vivolta and UPyTher are actively involved in sharing their expertise to help startups innovate and grow within the ecosystem. This collaborative approach ensures that HBH will become a vital part of a thriving biomaterials ecosystem in Brainport.”
With cutting-edge facilities, expert support, and a focus on collaboration, HBH’s Living Lab is setting a new standard for Life Sciences and Health startups shaping the future of biomaterials and biomedical advancements in the Brainport region and beyond.
Want to know more? Visit Helmond Biotech Materials Hub’s website for more details.
