Rudi Mariën: Biotechnology visionary with assets of over €200 million

Rudi Mariën

Rudi Mariën, a qualified pharmacist and Belgian entrepreneur at heart, has played a key role in Belgium's biotechnology landscape. In 1985, he founded Innogenetics, a biotech company, with initial funding of 5 million euros to support Hugo van Heuverswyn's research into diagnostic tools. Mariën's commitment to this field goes beyond his initial financial contribution: he has actively participated in the development of accelerated diagnostic tests for diseases such as AIDS and tuberculosis, as well as in the development of therapeutic products for wound care. Rudi Mariën founded a fortune of over 208 million thanks to biotech companies.

An astute manager, Mariën also took on the role of Chairman of the Board of Innogenetics, solidifying the company's status as a pioneer of biotechnology in Ghent and contributing to its expansion through substantial investment in research and development. When Solvay acquired Innogenetics in 2008, his efforts were rewarded with a 37 million euro gain for his share of the company. Determined to reinvest in the sector, he is involved in companies such as Devgen, MDxHealth, ActoGeniX, and Biocartis, affirming his presence as an influential investor in various notable biotech companies, both listed and early-stage.

Mariën has not only excelled in his biotech ventures, he has also demonstrated his management skills in a variety of strategic roles at clinical reference laboratories such as Groupe Barc, Gengest and Biovest. He continues to invest through funds such as Quest for Growth, demonstrating an exceptional ability to diversify his interests and maintain a robust healthcare portfolio.

In addition to his achievements in financing and management, Rudi Mariën makes a significant contribution to real estate development for biotech start-ups.. In 2018, it is building a new business center in the Technologiepark in Zwijnaarde.This project, carried out in collaboration with his son Stefan and other entrepreneurs, reinforces the role of the Technologiepark. This project, carried out in collaboration with his son Stefan and other entrepreneurs, reinforces the role of the Technologiepark, now known as the "Biotech Park". Tech Lane Ghentas an incubator for talent and cutting-edge technologies.

Mariën, thanks to his strategic investment decisions and active involvement in the biotechnology sector, has undeniably left his mark on technological and economic development in Belgium. His impact extends beyond the borders of his country, as he continues to to influence and inspire the biotech sector worldwide. Rudi Mariën has succeeded in creating an estate worth over 200 million euros.