The Cohort Experience

  • Discounted rate to access the full ING experience

    Companies receive access to the ING at a dedicated innovator rate (50% discount).

    Participants will have access to full ING experience including Main Stage Talks, Conversational Lunches, networking with the Innovation Network Community.

  • Founder and solution-focused programming

    The stream includes activities designed to help companies refine their message, strengthen their positioning, and prepare for meaningful conversations with stakeholders.

  • Intentional Networking

    Participants connect with judges, pharma leaders, investors, navigators, and other people who care about helping new solutions move forward.

  • Pitch to WhaleTank Judges

    All companies get a chance to pitch to the WhaleTank judges. WhaleTank is committed to making sure all companies who participate receive value.

What you receive by joining a WhaleTank cohort:

  • Exclusive discounted rate for startups that provides access to the by nomination- and invitation-only Innovation Network Gathering.(We do not want cost to be a barrier. Please contact us if your company needs additional support.)

  • Full ING experience

    Main Stage Talks, conversational lunches, attendee formal reception, and the broader ING community.

  • WhaleTank application review and feedback

    All applicants will receive feedback on their application form from WhaleTank judges

  • Pitch Workshop with experienced founders

  • Intentional networking with the WhaleTank judges including pharma leaders, investors, and industry experts who are exited founders or have experience at a pharma company.

  • Pitch opportunities

    • All companies get to pitch to WhaleTank judges through cohort programming on Day 1 (On Main Stage with full production!)

    • A select few companies will get to pitch on Main Stage on Day 2 to the full ING audience

We select for quality.

In the past we have had 6 companies pitch. We recognize the importance for the startups to pitch. This year, we have opened up additional slots to pitch on the stage in front of the esteemed WhaleTank judges consisted of biopharma leaders, investors, and navigators (exited founders, or formerly pharma). And some select companies will even have the chance to pitch twice onstage.

How it works

How to join the WhaleTank Cohort

  • The WhaleTank Review Committee will evaluate applications on a rolling basis.

    Apply here

    All applicants will receive feedback from the Review Committee.

  • Companies accepted into the WhaleTank cohort must register for the Innovation Network Gathering (ING) to participate.

    Startups receive a ~50% discount, we don’t want cost to be a barrier so please let us know if you need additional support.

Rolling Admissions

WhaleTank applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all available cohort spots are filled. Applying earlier gives you the best chance of securing a spot.

Every Friday at 5:00 PM ET, we close that week’s application group and send it to the WhaleTank Review Committee. Applications received after 5:00 PM ET will be included in the following week’s review. Applicants will receive an acceptance decision during the following week.

Want to participate in WhaleTank pitch prep?
Apply by August 28 to ensure you are included in the pitch preparation programming.

Wave Application Deadline

1st Wave: ~Aug 14

2nd Wave: ~Aug 21

3rd Wave: ~Aug 28

→ Startups must apply by Aug 28 to receive pitch prep

4th Wave: ~Sep 4

5th Wave: ~Sep 11

6th Wave: ~Sep 18

7th Wave: ~Sep 28 (*Applications closed 5pm ET)

Pitch Opportunities and Intentional Networking:

Accepted companies will prepare a two-minute pitch and a four-minute pitch prior to the event.

We recommend developing the four-minute version first and then refining it into a focused two-minute pitch. This process is designed to help you clarify your message and communicate the value of your solution more effectively.

Day 1: Every accepted company will deliver a two-minute pitch during the WhaleTank breakout program. These pitches will take place in front of WhaleTank judges, including biopharma leaders, investors, experienced founders, former industry executives, and strategic advisors.

Day 2: Based on the Day 1 pitches and judge review, select companies will be selected as WhaleTank finalists. The finalists will deliver their four-minute pitches during an ING Main Stage session in front of the broader Gathering audience.

Every company will participate in curated programming designed to create meaningful conversations and connections.