Charles River Laboratories Launches Global Biotech Incubator Program

At Advanced Therapies Week 2025, Charles River Laboratories announced its global biotech incubator and accelerator program, a new initiative designed to guide cell and gene therapy startups from early development through to commercialization. Kirsten Dolph, Senior Vice President of Global Manufacturing, joined AT-TV to discuss how the program bridges the gap between basic science and clinical application.

The Charles River Incubator Program supports biotech developers approximately 24 months before IND or CTA submission, while the Accelerator Program helps compress development timelines by 18 to 24 months post-submission. Both programs offer access to Charles River’s full “Concept to Cure” service portfolio, including drug development, safety assessment, CDMO capabilities, and associated testing across their 110 facilities in 20 countries.

Unlike many incubator programs, Charles River Laboratories offers these services without taking equity or requiring investment stakes. This differentiator allows startups to receive tailored regulatory guidance, mentorship, and technical expertise with no strings attached. Regulatory support is especially emphasized, with in-house experts who have prior experience with the FDA, EMA, and other global agencies.

Dolph highlighted early collaborations, including Navigo Proteins and Captolenz Therapeutics, with additional candidates in the pipeline. While the program is newly launched, Charles River Laboratories anticipates that widespread adoption of such support frameworks could significantly accelerate the pace of innovation, reducing time to market for critical therapies.

Emerging biotechs interested in the program can apply directly, gaining a pathway to advanced support without equity commitments.