FAQs

What is BLOC?

BLOC (Biopharma Leaders of Color) is a nonprofit community and innovation hub dedicated to advancing diverse excellence across biopharma, life sciences, and healthcare. We empower professionals of color through leadership development, community-building, and strategic networking opportunities.

Who can join BLOC?

BLOC welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and at every stage of their career — from students to seasoned executives. While our mission centers on supporting professionals of color, we are an inclusive organization open to everyone who shares our commitment to building a more equitable and innovative life sciences industry.

Is there a membership fee?

Starting June 1, 2025, BLOC will introduce tiered membership options to sustain and expand our programming, leadership development initiatives, and community-building efforts.

  • Professional Membership: $225/year

  • Student Membership: $95/year

🎉 Special Launch Offer:
Register between May 1, 2025–July 31, 2025 to receive discounted first-year rates:

  • Professionals: $175/year

  • Students: $75/year

Visit www.BLOCimpact.org/membership for full details and to secure your membership!

What is a BLOC Giving Circle?

The BLOC Giving Circle is a community of committed supporters who believe in BLOC’s mission and want to play a deeper role in shaping the future of life sciences leadership.
Giving Circle members directly fund critical programs, access initiatives, and leadership efforts — while connecting personally to the next generation of industry innovators.

By joining a Giving Circle, you help:

  • Amplify the voices of people of color in life sciences

  • Advocate for systemic change in leadership and representation

  • Provide access and visibility to rising leaders across the industry

What are the Giving Circle levels and benefits?

We offer three Giving Circle tiers:

  • BLOC Ally ($1,000+)

    • Recognition on BLOC’s website and in Annual Impact Report

    • Priority RSVP to major conference events (JPM, BIO, ASCO)

    • 1 complimentary guest pass to BLOC-hosted events annually*

    • Invitation to Giving Circle Roundtable (impact and strategy session)

    • 10% discount on Annual Gala table purchases*

    • BLOC Ally digital badge for LinkedIn/profile

    • 100% tax-deductible

  • BLOC Catalyst ($5,000+)

    • All Ally benefits

    • 2 guest passes to BLOC-hosted events annually*

    • Recognition in BLOC100 programs and signage

    • Early access to speaker opportunities and recognition initiatives

    • 15% discount on Gala table purchases*

    • Invite to annual leadership strategy session

  • BLOC Visionary ($10,000+)

    • All Catalyst benefits

    • 4 guest passes to BLOC-hosted events annually*

    • Invitation to join BLOC’s Advisory Council or strategic task forces

    • Personalized Impact Summary

    • Opportunity to co-host or underwrite a leadership development program

    • 20% discount on Gala table purchases*

*Note: BLOC Annual Gala is a separately ticketed event.

Visit www.BLOCimpact.org/membership for full Giving Circle information and to join.

How can I get involved with BLOC?

There are many ways to get involved!
You can join our membership community, attend our events, volunteer, sponsor programs, or amplify our mission by sharing our work within your networks. We offer opportunities for engagement at both the local and national levels.

What types of events does BLOC host?

BLOC hosts flagship networking events at major industry conferences like:

  • J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference (January)

  • BIO International Convention (June)

We also organize curated gatherings throughout the year in major biotech hubs across the U.S., designed to spotlight diverse leadership, create new opportunities for connection, and expand access to the networks that drive industry progress.

How can my company sponsor BLOC?

We welcome corporate partnerships and sponsorships to help advance our mission and expand impact.
Sponsors gain access to a purpose-driven, high-caliber community while supporting initiatives that create measurable progress in diversity, leadership, and innovation.

To learn more about corporate membership and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.BLOCimpact.org/membership or contact us directly at stephen@blocimpact.org

Is BLOC a nonprofit organization?

Yes. BLOC is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions, sponsorships, and Giving Circle donations may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

How does BLOC support career development?

BLOC provides career-accelerating resources, including:

  • Leadership development programming

  • Strategic networking and mentorship connections

  • Visibility and spotlight opportunities for members

  • Curated content and programs expanding access to leadership pipelines across life sciences

Our goal is to equip the next generation of diverse leaders to thrive and lead transformational change across the industry.

I’m not a person of color. Can I still participate or sponsor?

Absolutely.
BLOC is open to everyone who shares our commitment to building a more diverse, equitable, and innovative life sciences community. Allies and supporters play an essential role in creating lasting change.

How can I stay updated on BLOC’s events and initiatives?

Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/bloc-impact, and check our website regularly for updates on programs, events, and new opportunities to engage.