MCH Group is breaking new ground by forming a joint venture with Bits & Pretzels to launch a new healthtech conference. Just as Art Basel has developed over the decades into the world’s leading platform for contemporary art, MCH Group now aims to create an international meeting place for the key players in the field of healthtech.

With the health.tech | global summit, which will take place for the first time in March 2026, Basel is set to become a global meeting place for innovations in the healthtech sector. The conference aims to bring together the entire value chain of the healthcare industry on an international platform – from startups and established companies to research, academia, policy-makers, and investors.

Strengthening the healthcare industry in the long term

“The conference will act as a catalyst for established innovation players and emerging startups, opening up new business opportunities and growth potential. Our goal is to provide the industry with a place for exchange, inspiration, and concrete collaboration – thereby strengthening the Basel region and the healthcare industry in the long term,” explains Andrea Zappia, interim Group CEO of MCH Group.

In addition to traditional formats such as panels and keynotes, the conference will feature matchmaking events, startup pitches, and innovation showcases. MCH Group expects over 5,000 participants from more than 60 countries. A specially designed “Basel Day” will also invite the local population to experience the dynamic spirit of the conference.

With more than 800 life sciences companies, over 1,000 research groups, and around 33,000 highly qualified professionals, the Basel Area offers the perfect environment for the conference. Bernd Storm van’s Gravesande, co-founder of Bits & Pretzels, Europe’s largest founders’ festival, says: “Healthtech is one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sectors. The Basel region offers a dynamic, international ecosystem for this. We are delighted to contribute our experience in building technology communities and to create a platform with global impact.”