ADC CDMO Selection For Small Biotech

Antibody-drug conjugates are advancing rapidly, but the surge in development activity is placing new pressure on manufacturing networks. For emerging biotechs, successful ADC development increasingly depends on selecting the right CDMO partner, not just for technical execution, but for long-term reliability, quality, and access to capacity.

Drawing on decades of experience in ADC and conjugate development, Scott Hilderbrand shares practical guidance for navigating today’s manufacturing landscape. Key considerations include matching CDMO capabilities to the complexity of the molecule, balancing innovation with manufacturability, and evaluating whether a partner has the process development expertise needed to support novel chemistries. The discussion also highlights why robust quality systems, effective deviation management, and collaborative partnerships are critical for protecting clinical supply. With drug product capacity emerging as a greater industry bottleneck than drug substance manufacturing, forward-looking planning has become essential.

These insights offer valuable direction for biotech teams seeking to reduce development risk, secure manufacturing continuity, and position ADC programs for successful progression through the clinic and beyond.