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Peter Ketelaar, Chair of the LIFE Cooperative Board: “We are incredibly proud of Johannes and Ton. Their dedication has truly shaped the Life Sciences, Health & MedTech sector, not only in the Northern Netherlands. Their commitment, expertise, and entrepreneurship have strengthened our cooperative and had a major societal and economic impact—both nationally and internationally!” Johannes Wolters: connector and inspirer For most of his career, Johannes Wolters has been committed to advancing the Life Sciences, Health & MedTech sector in the Northern Netherlands, with a strong focus on societal and economic impact. From 2000 until his retirement earlier this year, he was the sole owner of Lode Holding—a more than 75-year-old company that flourished under his leadership. With subsidiaries Lode, ProCare, aXtion, Umaco, and Omnium, the group annually produces hundreds of medical devices and software solutions that contribute to health and rehabilitation worldwide. Almost every Olympic athlete improves their performance with equipment from Lode Holding. Johannes initiated the Wenckebach project and other large-scale collaborative initiatives, invested millions in innovative medical ideas for diverse target groups, and helped establish numerous spin-offs. His work has directly supported thousands of patients every day. Until recently, he was active in regional initiatives such as SSIG (Sport Science & Innovation Groningen), the LIFE Cooperative (as co-founder), and the Campus Trail, while also mentoring young entrepreneurs and startups. The next generation has since taken over the family business. Annelies Wolters, CEO of Lode Holding and daughter of Johannes: “My father has always dedicated himself to society and the well-being of others. Whether it’s medical innovation, supporting vulnerable groups, or inspiring young people in technology and science, his efforts have always been driven by responsibility, vision, and a deep sense of community.” Ton Vries: international innovation from Groningen For more than 35 years, Ton Vries has been a driving force in the Life Sciences & Health sector. From 2000 to 2020, he served as CEO of Syncom BV, which under his leadership grew into a successful spin-off of the University of Groningen. In 2017, he co-initiated the merger of Syncom and Mercachem, creating Symeres, a leading European contract research organization with over 600 employees worldwide. Ton is the inventor of the Dutch Resolution, a method for efficiently separating chiral compounds. This breakthrough resulted in patents, publications, licensing agreements with DSM, and four PhD theses—solidifying the Netherlands’ international leadership in pharmaceutical crystallization technology and green chemistry. He is also co-founder and CEO of BioBTX, a Groningen-based company with global impact that gives plastic waste a second life. Using its proprietary technology, residual waste streams are converted into valuable, circular building blocks for the chemical industry. The company is now preparing to build the world’s first circular aromatics plant in Delfzijl. Ton co-founded the LIFE Cooperative, guided young entrepreneurs, and realized numerous groundbreaking projects. Personally, he is known for his no-nonsense attitude, boundless energy, and popularity among colleagues. Robert Hof, former colleague at Symeres and LIFE Cooperative board member: “Ton is a true go-getter. When Syncom ran into trouble in 2008, he brought in new investors and rebuilt the company into the great success that Symeres is today. Ton is no-nonsense, not one for status or pretense. He doesn’t wear a suit—not even when Prime Minister Rutte or Queen Máxima visits. His company car? For years it was a 15-year-old Opel Astra, shared with the neighbor. With Ton, it’s always what you see is what you get . That directness and authenticity make him so beloved.” Short CV’s Career and Impact – Johannes Wolters Roles & Organizations 1985: Joined Lode as Controller 1992: Conducted a management buyout with a partner from the then-American owners of Lode 2000: Became 100% owner and CEO of Lode; shortly after, founded additional companies and Lode Holding as the parent company. Between 2000–2025, led multiple acquisitions and participated in various ventures 2023: Next generation joins the company, solidifying Lode Holding as a family business 2025: Retired on May 1, passing leadership to daughter Annelies (CEO) and son Freek (CFO) 2014–2024: Co-founder & board member of LIFE Cooperative Impact & Innovation Produced over 1,000 medical devices , benefiting millions of patients worldwide Projects spanning rehabilitation, sports, ADL equipment, prehabilitation & perioperative care Co-initiated the Campus Trail running event with Campus Groningen (since 2017) Sponsored scientific research and involved in initiatives such as Girls’ Day and student excursions Societal Engagement Mentored young entrepreneurs ( >40 start-ups/year ) Volunteer at SSIG (Sport Science & Innovation Groningen) , ~12 hours/week Advisor and board member for RVO , Smitfonds , and juror in entrepreneurship competitions Career and Impact – Ton Vries Roles & Organizations 2000–2020: CEO of Syncom BV , growing the company from 30 to over 100 employees 2017: Merged Syncom and Mercachem to create Symeres , now with over 600 employees worldwide Co-initiator of InnoLab Chemie , Cliq Swiss Tech , and BioBTX 2014–2024: Co-founder & Chair of LIFE Cooperative 2014–present: Board member of Campus Groningen Current: Board member of PharmaNL Innovation & Science PhD in Organic Chemistry, 1996, University of Groningen under Professor Hans Wijnberg Inventor of the Dutch Resolution method for separating chiral compounds Patents, publications (e.g., Angewandte Chemie ), DSM licensing, 4 PhDs supervised Impact: more efficient and sustainable pharmaceutical production, strengthening Dutch expertise in pharmaceutical crystallization technology Societal Engagement Mentor and coach to young entrepreneurs and colleagues Delivered notable projects within LIFE Cooperative Personal reputation: no-nonsense, energetic, determined, highly respected by peers Athletic: maintains daily long-distance running

A highlight of the conference was the presentation of two royal honors (Officer in the Order of Orange-Nassau) by Groningen Mayor Roelien Kamminga to two former board members of the LIFE Cooperative, Ton Vries and Johannes Wolters. They received this recognition for their exceptional contributions to the organization and to science. "We look back with great pride on this special edition. The royal honors for our former board members Ton Vries and Johannes Wolters are a well-deserved recognition of two careers marked by dedication and entrepreneurship in the Life Science, Health & MedTech sector in Northern Netherlands. Thanks to their vision and commitment, the LIFE Cooperative stands strong today, and we continue to build on the solid foundation they laid," said Peter Ketelaar, board member of the LIFE Cooperative. Conference Highlights The conference featured a rich program, including a presentation of the LIFE Cooperative’s Industry Agenda in development. Inspiring keynotes were delivered by international scientists such as Prof. Jochen Mierau (UMCG, Lifelines) and Annelies de Lange (VIG, Association of Innovative Medicines), who shared new insights on sustainable innovations in health and care. The four companies nominated for the Innovation Award (MemoryLab, QT Sense, Sabiad, and CC Diagnostics) delivered their pitches in a thrilling finale. CC Diagnostics from Groningen emerged as the winner, receiving the €7,500 prize from Linda Dijkshoorn, board member of the LIFE Cooperative. About the LIFE Cooperative The LIFE Cooperative promotes innovation in the life sciences by facilitating collaboration between entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors. Through various programs and events, LIFE supports the development of technologies that improve health and well-being. The cooperative represents over 60 companies, ranging from ambitious startups and innovative SMEs to international players. Together, they employ over 4,750 FTEs and generate €500 million in revenue. The LIFE Science Conference is an initiative of the LIFE Cooperative and is made possible by the municipalities of Groningen and Assen, Health~Holland, NV NOM, the WEST Business Association, and various other partners and sponsors.

The LIFE Cooperative proudly presents the finalists for the LIFE Science Innovation Award 2025: MemoryLab Health, QT Sense, Sabiad, and CC Diagnostics

Sustainability goes beyond the environment; it is also a vital part of the future of our healthcare system. During the fourth edition of the LIFE Science Conference , the theme 'Sustainability in Health(care)' takes center stage—a topic that evokes both urgency and inspiration within the life sciences and healthcare sector. On Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Forum Groningen will transform into a meeting place for professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and policymakers from the life sciences and health sector. The LIFE Science Conference is organized by the LIFE Cooperative, in collaboration with Health~Holland, the Municipality of Groningen, and NV NOM. The conference offers attendees an afternoon filled with networking opportunities, sharp pitches, the presentation of the Innovation Award, interactive panel discussions, and keynote speakers exploring the impact of innovation and the urgency of sustainability. Inspiring speakers and current challenges "In recent years, the LIFE Science Conference has welcomed top speakers to highlight current themes, innovations, and challenges. Nobel Prize winner Ben Feringa, Special Envoy Hans Schikan, Professor Marcel Levi, and Captain of Science Wiro Niessen have taken the stage at the conference over the past few years. 'For the fourth edition, new big names will be announced soon,' says Ronald Hesse, Director of LIFE Cooperative. Participants can expect impact makers from both within and beyond the region. Additionally, they will be inspired by surprising collaborations that redefine sustainability, along with fresh ideas that serve as the starting point for tomorrow's innovations." Registration and nominations This year, the program of the LIFE Science Conference will once again conclude with the presentation of the now-renowned LIFE Science Innovation Award. This award is the ultimate recognition for groundbreaking northern innovations in the life sciences & health sector. Along with the opening of conference registrations, nominations for the Innovation Award have also begun. The Innovation Award is presented to the innovation with the greatest impact in the field of Life Sciences & Health, originating from the Northern Netherlands. Companies, (knowledge) institutions, and projects can nominate themselves or others. "Do you know an innovation that deserves recognition? Or are you involved in a groundbreaking project within the sector? Nominate it and get a chance to win the Innovation Award, which includes a €7,500 cheque," adds Ronald Hesse. Nominations for the Innovation Award can be submitted via http://www.lifescienceconference.nl About the LIFE Cooperative The LIFE Cooperative is the northern collaboration in the field of life sciences and medical technology, created by, for, and with the regional business community. The cooperative focuses on strengthening the region's innovative capacity through effective and efficient collaboration. The impact of the LIFE Cooperative on the Life Sciences & Health sector in Northern Netherlands is significant: more than 55 companies – ranging from startups and SMEs to international players – are members, accounting for 4,750 FTEs and a combined revenue of 450 million euros. Picture: Casper Maas

Exciting news for LIFE Cooperative member Cortalix , this Groningen-based biotech start-up has received an investment of 1 million euros from Future Tech Ventures , the Rabobank Innovation Loan , and various subsidies to accelerate the development and commercialization of its single-domain antibody technology. With the investment in Cortalix, Future Tech Ventures proudly adds the sixth start-up to its portfolio since its launch. The official investment moment took place last week at the Zernike Campus, where Cortalix is located in Innolab Agrifood. Cortalix is a leading biotechnology company that creates single-domain antibodies and makes them suitable for applications in PET imaging diagnostics, radiotherapy, and CAR-T immunotherapy. Thanks to its own platform for the selection, production, and functionalization of these antibody fragments, Cortalix offers a powerful alternative to traditional antibodies. Nanobodies are smaller, more stable, and more flexible, but retain the same versatile application possibilities, making them ideal for various medical applications such as cancer therapy, molecular diagnostics, and other medical innovations. With the support of Future Tech Ventures, Cortalix takes an important step in its mission to achieve and bring biotechnological breakthroughs to the market. Ignacio Faustino, investment manager at Future Tech Ventures, is enthusiastic about the investment in Cortalix due to their innovative approach to synthetic nanobody technologies: “We believe that their next-generation humanized nanobodies will provide unparalleled solutions for in vitro diagnostics and targeted therapies, which will have a significant impact on people's health. We are proud to support Cortalix and strengthen Groningen's position as a biotechnology hub, which perfectly aligns with our vision for the future." From research to clinical application What sets Cortalix apart from other companies is the development of animal-free antibodies. The nanobodies produced by the company are not only more efficient and stable but also faster and more cost-effective to produce than traditional antibodies. Unique to Cortalix is that they handle everything: from finding and creating these antibodies to actually applying them in the medical world. Further development of Cortalix With the investment from Future Tech Ventures, Cortalix will expand its platform with humanized libraries for radiopharmaceutical and CAR-T therapies, making them suitable for clinical applications in humans. This process prevents nanobodies from being recognized as foreign by the body, allowing them to be used more effectively in treatments. “This investment allows us to further refine our technology and prepare it for clinical applications,” says Herman Steen, CEO of Cortalix. “Our goal is to become a leading player in nanobody-based PET imaging, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. This funding brings us a step closer to realizing that vision.” Collaboration with UMCG Cortalix works closely with the University Medical Center Groningen ( UMCG ) on various innovative projects. One of the key collaborations focuses on the development of new CAR-T cell therapies. By using Cortalix's technology for targeted treatments, cancer patients can be helped more effectively. The collaboration with UMCG provides access to extensive expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, accelerating the implementation of innovative therapies. About Cortalix Cortalix was founded in July 2023 but builds on years of expertise in nanobody technology and PET imaging. The company is part of a strong biomedical ecosystem in Northern Netherlands, with collaborations within the LIFE Cooperative, the University of Groningen (RUG), and UMCG. With a dedicated team of five professionals and ambitious expansion plans, Cortalix continues to innovate and work on breakthroughs that have a direct impact on healthcare worldwide. About Future Tech Ventures Future Tech Ventures is an investment fund focused on supporting high-tech startups in the proof-of-concept phase, with a particular focus on Northern Netherlands. The fund offers accessible financing, combined with relevant services and an extensive network, to stimulate technological, social, and economic impact. Source article: Future Tech Ventures Source picture: Casper Maas Fotografie

Four new companies, including LIFE Cooperative member Bioprex Medical , founded by researchers from the Faculty of Science & Engineering, have been nominated to participate in the fifth edition of the Academic Startup Competition (ASC). The ASC is an annual program in which the most promising academic startups from Dutch universities and research institutes participate. The goal of the ASC is to accelerate their growth, provide clarity on where to focus, and open doors that were previously closed. The ASC starts with forty teams, nominated by Dutch universities, startup programs, research institutes, and research programs. After three rounds, ten winners will be announced on April 2, who will travel to the U.S. a month later. There, in Silicon Valley, these teams will meet entrepreneurs, investors, and connectors. Bioprex Medical Medical implants, or other medical devices inside the body, are susceptible to bacterial infections. Moreover, such infections are often difficult to treat with antibiotics, which can easily lead to bacterial resistance. Scientists from the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, led by Prof. Ton Loontjes and Dr. Rui Li, have developed an antibacterial coating that can prevent these types of infections in medical implants. The coating, based on so-called quaternary ammonium compounds, kills bacteria through an electrostatic mechanism. This mechanism differs significantly from the way antibiotics work, meaning the use of the coating does not contribute to the development of resistance. Read the full article from the University of Groningen (FSE Science Newsroom | René Fransen) here.

In 2023, the Impact-implants program started with the goals of advancing innovation in the field of medical technology and personalised implants. Six projects started as multidisciplinary collaboration between regional partners from healthcare, academia, and the industrial sector. Roughly one year ago, the Just Transition Fund program IMPACT-Implants started. Regional partners from industry, research and healthcare embarked into a 3-year journey to optimize biomaterials and workflows for implant design to innovate the next generation of individualized 3D-designed devices, including implants for complex bone defects and fractures on knees, wrists, jaws and the airway. The partners includes the University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG), represented by 9 academic and clinical departments, in collaboration with the MetaMechanics group of the ENTEG Institute of the Faculty of Sciences and Engineering of the University of Groningen, and regional companies WiTEC Innovating Together, Bether Encapsulates, BAAT Medical and the non-subsidize company PolyVation. The UMCG Innovation Center supported the initiation of the project and is involved in the program management. The vision and the ambition of IMPACT-Implants The program leader, Dr. Joep Kraeima, Associate professor, Technical Physician Specialist, dpt. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Head 3DLab UMCG summarizes the vision in a sentence: “The aim is to provide personalised solutions from head-to-toe and in the entire north of the Netherlands. This project is an example of what the province of Groningen and the North of the Netherlands has to offer in terms of state-of-the-art innovative healthcare solutions. The six research & development lines iMPaCT-implants has successfully shaped and started six interconnected research projects, each addressing critical aspects of medical implant innovation including regulatory aspects, applicability, new technical development and further business potential. All projects have started in 2023 and are running smoothly. Curious to see what the project are about directly from the project leaders Here you find an overview of the projects and you can hear directly from the project leaders on their ambitions and expected outcomes. Source article & picture: UMCG Research

De LIFE Cooperative, the cooperative for the life sciences & health sector in the Northern Netherlands, is taking a new step toward the future with the announcement of its new board composition. As of October 1, the LIFE Cooperative proudly welcomes two new faces: Annelies Wolters, director of Lode Holding, and Koos Koops, partner at Carduso Capital and former co-founder and CEO of Xendo. These new board members bring fresh ideas and energy to elevate the cooperative's ambitions to the next level.

In September, NoordZ magazine published a wonderful article about the 10th anniversary of the LIFE Cooperative, in which we share our growth, collaborations, and future plans. The article highlights how LIFE brings companies together and fosters innovation in the Life Sciences & Health sector. Read the full article below (in Dutch)!