Publications
Publications
- October 2002
- HBS Case Collection
A Father's Love: Novazyme Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
By: Richard M.J. Bohmer and Bradley Campbell
Abstract
John Crowley, CEO of Novazyme Pharmaceuticals, a start-up biotechnology firm developing an orphan drug to treat a rare lysosomal storage disorder from which his children suffer, must choose between a partnership and a buyout to have sufficient funds and support to get the drug to the market. Accompanying this dilemma are questions relating to Novazyme's clinical trial strategy, marketing, sales, production, and pricing. This case introduces students to the FDA drug approval process and government-supported financial inducements to develop drugs for small patient populations. Also provides insight into the nature of strategic relationships in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Keywords
Technological Innovation; Business Startups; Partners and Partnerships; Financing and Loans; Governing Rules, Regulations, and Reforms; Sales; Price; Product Development; Motivation and Incentives; Decision Choices and Conditions; Biotechnology Industry; Pharmaceutical Industry
Citation
Bohmer, Richard M.J., and Bradley Campbell. "A Father's Love: Novazyme Pharmaceuticals, Inc." Harvard Business School Case 603-048, October 2002.