Ensuring every child is vaccinated

On behalf of the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Gavi, the Global Vaccine Alliance, NorthX Biologics’ CEO Janet Hoogstraate participated in an important roundtable on “Leveraging Technology and Innovation to Ensure Every Child is Vaccinated” on December 10, 2024. Joined by other Swedish companies and international organisations with experiences in pioneering innovations in technology and sustainability, together they explored how to contribute to reaching the 14.5 million children in the world who still lack vaccines.

Read Janet’s statement below.

Your excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is an honor to join this important conversation about leveraging technology and innovation to ensure every child is vaccinated. At NorthX Biologics, we are deeply committed to driving change and contributing meaningfully to this global effort.

First, scaling up vaccine manufacturing processes is at the heart of what we do. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and robust expertise, NorthX Biologics is well-positioned to increase production capacity for both new and existing vaccines. This ensures rapid response to global health needs.

Second, we believe in the power of technology transfer to low- and middle-income countries. Establishing local manufacturing hubs is crucial for self-sufficiency and long-term vaccine security. We are ready to collaborate with partners to transfer our expertise and support the creation of regional production capabilities. We are proud of our history of working on scaling up and manufacturing of clinical trial material for a more affordable polio vaccine, having been part of two projects supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Third, capacity building is essential. At NorthX Biologics, we prioritize training staff in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), biotechnology, and advanced analytical techniques. By equipping local teams with the skills they need, we help build sustainable ecosystems for vaccine development and production.

Fourth, we recognize the urgent need for cost-effective solutions. By working to redesign and redevelop vaccines—for instance, making them more stable so they can be transported at room temperature rather than refrigerated—we can make vaccines more accessible and reduce logistical challenges. We are currently a partner in an oral cholera vaccine project collaborating with professor Jan Holmgren and the International Vaccine Institute. These partnerships demonstrate our commitment to advancing vaccine access and global health equity.

Finally, our capabilities extend to manufacturing new vaccines and quality control analyses to ensure their safety, quality and consistency.

NorthX Biologics is not just a manufacturer; we are a partner in innovation, committed to finding creative solutions to global challenges. By collaborating with governments, non-profits, companies and other stakeholders, we can collectively work towards a future where no child is left behind in receiving life-saving vaccines.

I look forward to exploring new approaches and opportunities for collaboration with all of you. Together, we can ensure a healthier, brighter future for every child.