On July 14, the Tec Labs community gathered for another edition of Breakfast with the CEO, this time featuring Lawrence Fine, CEO of AGCP Farmacêuticos, for an inspiring morning of conversation, knowledge sharing, and networking.
Lawrence took participants through his professional journey and the story behind AGCP, showing how innovation often begins with unexpected opportunities. He recalled how a knee injury led to a collaboration that eventually evolved into a project and, ultimately, the creation of the company. Today, AGCP is developing a portfolio of innovative technologies, ranging from fast-acting topical formulations and advanced wound care solutions to nanoclay-based applications with potential in cancer treatment.
Throughout the session, Lawrence highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving innovation, sharing examples of AGCP’s partnerships with fellow Tec Labs incubated companies, including IPSIS, as well as with research groups from Ciências ULisboa and other schools of the University of Lisbon. He also spoke about the company’s strategy of licensing technologies and partnering with pharmaceutical companies to maximise the impact of its innovations.
Beyond AGCP’s projects, the discussion explored broader challenges faced by science-based startups. Lawrence reflected on the gap that often exists between scientific research and market application, noting that promising discoveries frequently remain within academia without reaching society. To help bridge this divide, he has developed educational initiatives aimed at equipping researchers with the business knowledge needed to transform scientific discoveries into successful ventures.
Participants also had the opportunity to learn about a project management platform developed by Lawrence, which integrates modules for project management, product valuation, and intellectual property management, helping research-driven innovations navigate the journey from scientific discovery to commercialisation. He also emphasised the importance of choosing the right moment to bring innovations to market, as well as the idea that communication and transparency are often more important than avoiding failure itself, as these qualities build trust and enable teams to overcome challenges together.
The morning concluded with an engaging discussion among participants, reinforcing the spirit of knowledge sharing that defines the Breakfast with the CEO series. As Lawrence remarked during the session, “If I learn something, why wouldn’t I share it with others?“ – a mindset that perfectly reflects the collaborative culture fostered within the Tec Labs community.
