The European Life Sciences CEO Forum (ELSF) returns for its 19th annual edition on March 4–5, 2026, taking place at the Hilton Zurich Airport Hotel. Organized by Sachs Associates Switzerland AG, the forum is one of Europe’s longest-running and most respected life sciences partnering and investment meetings.
The event forms a central pillar of Sachs Spring Life Sciences Week (SSLSW) and will be preceded by the 1st Annual European Neuroscience Innovation Forum (ENIF) on March 3, 2026, allowing participants to engage in two complementary, high-value events within the same week.
A trusted platform for life sciences leaders and investors
The longevity and success of the European Life Sciences CEO Forum are built on the continued participation of senior corporate and financial investors, pharmaceutical licensing executives, and expert advisors seeking direct engagement with innovative biotech and life sciences companies.
The 2026 programme is designed to help attendees:
- Stay informed on key industry developments and strategic priorities for the year ahead
- Connect with biotech CEOs and founders actively seeking investment and partnerships
- Gain insight into capital markets, licensing trends, and deal-making strategies
- Build long-term relationships in a focused, senior-level environment
With nearly two decades of history, ELSF has become a go-to meeting point for decision-makers navigating Europe’s evolving life sciences ecosystem.
Programme structure and content
The main in-person programme runs across two full days (March 4–5) and features:
- 12+ hours of high-level keynote presentations and panel discussions
- Strategic perspectives from senior industry leaders, investors, and advisors
- Sessions focused on investment outlooks, partnering models, and growth strategies
All keynote and panel content will also be available on demand from March 12, ensuring extended access beyond the live event.
Company showcases and innovation spotlight
A central component of the forum is the global company showcase, featuring 50+ presentations from:
- Established public companies
- Private and emerging biotechs
- Early-stage and seed-stage innovators
These companies will present innovative technologies, platforms, and therapeutic strategies, with a strong emphasis on investment and partnering opportunities. A limited number of presentations will take place live in dedicated tracks, complemented by virtual company showcases available on demand during the online week.
Partnering at scale: in-person and virtual meetings
ELSF 2026 places strong emphasis on structured one-to-one meetings, enabling targeted and efficient engagement.
- In-person meetings: March 4–5, 2026
- Virtual meetings: March 10–12, 2026
The online meeting system supports:
- Secure audio/video calls
- Screen sharing for slide presentations
- Seamless scheduling across time zones
Organizers anticipate up to 2,000 meetings to be completed across the event, underscoring its role as a high-efficiency partnering platform.
Audience and participation
The forum is expected to attract 400+ delegates from across the life sciences sector, including:
- Corporate and financial investors
- Strategic partners and pharma licensing executives
- Banks, advisors, and service providers
- Senior executives from biotech and life sciences companies
While the core programme is in-person, a portion of the audience will participate virtually, expanding reach and accessibility.
Added value for Swiss biotech
Members of the Swiss Biotech Association are eligible for a 15% discount on registration and company showcase packages, including access to the online meeting system.
Event details
- Event: 19th Annual European Life Sciences CEO Forum
- Dates: March 4–5, 2026
- Location: Hilton Zurich Airport Hotel, Zurich, Switzerland
- Part of: Sachs Spring Life Sciences Week
- Hosted by: Sachs Associates Switzerland AG
- Format: In-person conference with integrated virtual week
Why attend ELSF 2026
At a time when capital efficiency, strategic partnering, and scientific differentiation are more critical than ever, the European Life Sciences CEO Forum offers a proven environment to:
- Position companies for investment and licensing success
- Engage directly with senior decision-makers
- Gain actionable insights into 2026 market dynamics
For biotech leaders, investors, and advisors, ELSF 2026 represents a high-impact opportunity to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of European life sciences.