From Startup to $2B+ Exit: Lessons from Capstan’s Sale to AbbVie
June 22, 2026
30DE
Type: Breakout Session
Focus Area:
Cell and Gene Therapy and Genome Editing
This session will feature a Fireside Chat between the former CEO of Capstan Therapeutics, as they share firsthand experience leading Capstan through one of the marquee M&A deals of 2025, a $2B+ acquisition by Abbvie, as well as an M&A Partner and a Life Sciences Partner from Cooley.
The conversation will explore the business and scientific factors that drive value in cell therapy, the strategic decisions behind building a company for acquisition, and the lessons learned from navigating a high-profile transaction. Attendees will gain unique insights into the evolving landscape of cell therapy M&A, including deal structuring, partnering strategies, and what it takes to achieve global impact in a rapidly advancing field.
Moderator
Speakers


