NIIMBL bioLOGIC Pitch Competition Showcases Student Innovation and Biopharmaceutical Solutions

DELAWARE —More than 75 high school students from Delaware Technical Community College’s Upward Bound Programs showcased their innovative ideas and research in the field of biopharmaceuticals during the NIIMBL bioLOGIC Pitch Competition, held on Wednesday, July 23, at Delaware Tech’s George Campus in Wilmington.

The event marked the culmination of a six-week summer program and a unique collaboration between the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) and Delaware Tech’s Upward Bound Programs. The initiative introduced students to a specially designed biologic curriculum that empowered them to explore real-world healthcare challenges while building academic and professional skills.

Student teams presented their research and solutions across four key biopharmaceutical therapeutic areas: Dermatology, Cardiology, Respirology, and Metabolism/Endocrinology. Guests had the opportunity to engage with students during an interactive expo, where participants explained their projects, shared insights, and answered questions. Selected students pitched their concepts to a panel of expert judges, from the STEM industry, in a live presentation format.

At the award ceremony, Dr. Tamika Haynes, the education training specialist for the program, praised the students’ growth: “Week by week, pitch by pitch, slide by slide, we observed something incredible happen. Our students rose to the challenge. Growing and learning didn’t stop just at science and business—They became designers, innovators, entrepreneurs, confident communicators, and social change agents in a world filled with challenges. Today, they truly discovered their voices.”

The award of Best Overall Project went to the 12^th grade team behind Bone Renewer, an IV-based therapy concept designed to treat osteoporosis. Their solution combined Zoledronic Acid (Zometa), parathyroid hormones (PTH), and bear-derived ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) to increase bone density and strength. Their pitch emphasized the treatment’s potential to restore mobility and improve quality of life for future patients.

Reflecting on the experience, one student shared, “I’m learning how to think differently about myself and the world around me.”

"This unique, collaborative project truly challenged our students to expand their thinking around real-world problem-solving,” said Dr. Rachel Anderson, director of workforce development and community education. “It emphasized the importance of teamwork, mirroring our strong partnership between Delaware Tech, NIIMBL, and the University of Delaware."
 

“It was a pleasure to work with Delaware Tech to facilitate the bioLOGIC Pitch Competition,” said Kathie Young, workforce and talent program engagement manager for NIIMBL. “Our aim with this program is to inspire the next generation of workers and leaders to embrace the opportunities in the biopharmaceutical field.”
 

About Delaware Tech’s Upward Bound Program

Delaware Tech’s Upward Bound is a federally-funded academic and college preparatory program that supports high school students on their path to earning a college degree. Upward Bound empowers participants to complete high school and enter and complete a program of postsecondary education by providing academic support, personal guidance, parent education, and enrichment services. Students are exposed to a variety of educational, cultural events, career exploration, and self-development opportunities with specific programs focusing on math and science.
 

About NIIMBL

The National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) is a public-private partnership focused on advancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing, solving industry challenges, and developing the skilled workforce to meet industry’s needs. Headquartered at the University of Delaware’s STAR Campus, NIIMBL is a member of Manufacturing USA, sponsored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the U.S. Department of Commerce.


Students describe their project displays to judges and peers.