The BIO International Convention is the largest global event for the biotechnology industry and attracts the biggest names in biotech, offers key networking and partnering opportunities, and provides insights and inspiration on major trends affecting the industry.  The Convention in Chicago will be a “can’t miss event” for reporters covering all aspects of the biotechnology and life sciences industries, including investments, policy, state initiatives and economic development, and the international marketplace.

Key Dates:

October 21, 2009 – Housing available online
December 1, 2009 – Advance media registration available online
April 23, 2010 – Advance media registration closes
May 2-6, 2010 – Onsite media registration open

Registration Information:

Advance media registration will be available December 1, 2009 – April 23, 2010. 
Onsite media registration will be available May 2-6, 2010 at the McCormick Place.

Media Registration Guidelines:

Media registration is open to editors and reporters working full time for print, broadcast, or web publications with valid press credentials.
Valid press credentials are required at time of registration and include:

• A bylined article published by their employing news agency within the past six months 
• A copy of publication masthead listing the individual’s primary position as an editor or reporter  
• Official photo identification issued by employing news agency or government

Bloggers will be considered for media registration on a case-by-case basis and must provide three of their most recent blog posts on a biotechnology related subject to be considered for media registration.

Freelance journalists may apply for complimentary media registration, but must present the following:

• A signed letter on company letterhead from your assignment editor confirming your assignment to cover the event
• A by-lined story from the publication you are freelancing for dated within the last six months

Web-based, college, and freelance reporters are strongly encouraged to register in advance.

Please note that marketing executives, sales representatives, public relations executives, analysts, consultants, authors, and researchers may not register as media.

BIO reserves the right to deny media registration to any individual who does not meet the above guidelines, or to limit the amount of media registrants from any one publication.

BIO reserves the right to request a copy of convention coverage as a requirement for media registration.

Press Conference Rooms:

We are providing seating for 40 people, a podium including a microphone and sound system, an LCD projector, and a projection screen.  Please bring your own laptop for PowerPoint presentations. 

New for 2010

We are providing speaker phone capability in each press conference room.  Organizations holding press conferences will be responsible for providing call-in numbers for their event and for promoting call-in information to reporters who are covering it remotely.

Each organization approved for a press conference will be entirely responsible for promoting the event.

Press conference room applications will be available starting February 1, 2010.  Press Conference room applicants will receive notification of their assigned time and location on April 1, 2010.