From therapeutic mini proteins to pharma compliance services, international life sciences companies are choosing Leiden as the place to grow. Among them are VRG Therapeutics (Hungary) and CONVAL Group (Turkey) — two companies that recently established operations at the Leiden Bio Science Park, joining a thriving ecosystem of research, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Newcomers with a mission
VRG Therapeutics develops mini proteins aimed at previously untreatable disease mechanisms. Originally based in Budapest, the company expanded to Leiden to facilitate its clinical development phase and build relationships with international investors and strategic partners.
CONVAL Group, founded in Turkey, brings over 20 years of experience in pharmaceutical compliance and validation. By opening its new office in Leiden, the company is positioning itself to support pharmaceutical firms in the Netherlands and the broader EU with regulatory expertise and quality services.
Why Leiden?
Leiden offers one of the most connected and complete life sciences environments in Europe. With key institutions like Leiden University, Leiden University Medical Centre, and the Leiden Bio Science Park, the region combines academic excellence with business-friendly infrastructure, efficient startup procedures, and close links to regulators.
“We chose Leiden because it offers exactly what a biotech startup needs to grow: streamlined onboarding processes, strong science, access to talent, a supportive community, and direct links to investors and industry partners, all in one place.”
— Eszter Weinberger, Strategic Operations Manager, VRG Therapeutics
“The arrival of VRG Therapeutics strengthens our position as a frontrunner in AI-driven health innovation, especially in tackling hard-to-treat diseases. CONVAL Group adds to our strong regulatory network, supporting companies that engage closely with the EMA. We’re proud to welcome both to our community.”
— Esther Peters, Director, Leiden Bio Science Park
From ambition to action
Establishing a business in a new country takes more than ambition — it requires local insight and trusted partners. With support from InnovationQuarter and the Leiden Bio Science Park, both companies were able to set up operations efficiently and start building valuable connections in the Dutch life sciences landscape.
“The support we received was hands-on, efficient, and truly helpful,” says Yücel Metinol, Operations Director at CONVAL Group.
“InnovationQuarter helped us navigate the legal setup and introduced us to trusted service providers, which made all the difference,”adds Eszter Weinberger of VRG Therapeutics.
Strengthening the future of health, together
By choosing Leiden, these companies contribute to a broader mission: advancing the future of health through innovation, collaboration and international knowledge exchange. Their presence not only adds to the scientific depth of the park, but also reinforces the region’s role as a global hub for life sciences.
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