Request for Information

Octane

BSL-2 Wet Lab Operator

Kingston Economic Development is reviewing the opportunity to develop a new BSL-2 wet lab and biomanufacturing facility in Kingston, Ontario.

The proposed facility is designed to support scaling and early-stage life sciences companies by offering rentable access to lab space, advanced equipment, and a full suite of support services. The Request for Information is being issued to identify  potential partners that might be interested in operating this facility. We want to hear from lab operators, incubators, accelerators, contract research organizations (CROs), or other experienced groups.

What We’d Like From You

// If this opportunity sounds like a good fit, please send us:

// A brief intro to your organization and your experience

// Examples of labs or facilities you’ve managed in the past

// Operational structure including  services you offer and how you price or lease space

// How you handle safety, compliance, and training

// Any ideas you have for making this space thrive in Kingston (e.g. partnerships, programming, investments)

// Some indication of your financial stability

// Confirmation of your interest in being a lab operator for the proposed lab space and interest in participating in a full RFS process

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a group that:

// Has 2 to 5 years (or more) experience operating BSL-2 labs or similar facilities

// Understands biomanufacturing processes and equipment

// Has experience managing tenants (e.g., leasing, onboarding, day-to-day relationships)

// Follows biosafety regulations and lab safety best practices

// Can offer R&D or CRO-style support services to tenants

// Is interested in collaborating with local institutions like Universities, Colleges and Economic Development offices

Additional Information:

Each respondent will be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement to receive additional project information.  Additional information will include:

// Proposed business model

// Draft architectural layout

// Kingston life science background

What Happens Next

We may follow up with a full Request for Services (RFS) or proposal process after reviewing responses.

Please send your responses by 5:00pm EST, August 14, 2025.

Please submit your interest to Ben McIlquham

Contact Ben McIlquham

Investment Manager,
Health Innovation
613-544-2725 x 7248
Cell: 613-532-1853
mcilquham@investkingston.ca