Uruguay will participate in BIOSPAIN 2025, the main biotechnology trade fair in Spain, which will take place at Fira de Barcelona from October 7 to 9. The country’s involvement is supported by Uruguay XXI and includes a dedicated space to present science-based startups, institutions, and accelerators that are part of its expanding biotechnology ecosystem.
This participation aligns with Uruguay’s national strategy to integrate into global value chains while encouraging investment, innovation, and strategic partnerships within a stable environment.
“Talent, institutional stability, and a strong commitment to science and innovation position us as an emerging hub in Latin America,” said Cristina Montero, Investment Promotion Specialist at Uruguay XXI.
Among the startups featured is Guska, founded in 2024 by virologists Gonzalo Moratorio and Pilar Moreno. The company focuses on developing cancer therapies using oncolytic viruses that target tumor cells without affecting healthy ones. Guska utilizes RNA viruses for improved safety and incorporates artificial intelligence from Uruguayan firm Marvik. The startup has received international funding and participated in programs such as those run by MassBio in Boston.
Cryosmetics, established by Dr. Vanesa Piattoni, aims to innovate within the cosmetics sector through natural products that affect the skin microbiome. Backed by experience in market development and other key areas, Cryosmetics is preparing for its commercial launch after being incubated at the Institut Pasteur in Montevideo.
Nanogrow Biotech is another participant; founded in 2021 by Nicolás Galmarini and Lucía Vanrell, it develops nanoantibody therapies with applications for both human and animal health. Nanogrow recently won the Drug Discovery & Therapeutics Platforms category at the Deep Tech Summit 2025 organized by EMERGE Brasil and was named most disruptive startup at South Summit Brazil.
In addition to startups, two institutions will represent Uruguay: the Pando Science and Technology Park—recognized as the first initiative of its kind in Uruguay fostering collaboration between academia, research, and industry—and Lab+, an accelerator linked to Institut Pasteur that supports biotech startups through mentoring and access to laboratories.
Uruguay’s biotechnology sector features over 50 pharmaceutical manufacturing plants covering both human and animal health fields. More than 20 international companies operate regional centers there; diagnostic firms like DASA from Brazil and BGI from China are also present.
“Uruguay offers a competitive, stable, and collaborative environment for life sciences innovation. Our participation in BIOSPAIN reinforces that message and positions the country as a reliable and forward-looking partner,” concluded Montero.
The country’s presence at BIOSPAIN aims to highlight its scientific capacity while attracting new opportunities for collaboration and investment.
