New Ameren Gift Accelerates Bioscience Entrepreneurship in St. Louis
The donation strengthens BioSTL's efforts to support startups and grow the region's innovation economy
[ST. LOUIS, MO, September 29, 2026] – The partnership will help BioSTL continue investing in the region's bioscience entrepreneurs and startups, strengthening St. Louis' economy and its reputation as a national and global innovation hub.
In addition to creating high-growth startups and building upon St. Louis existing bioscience reputation and innovation capabilities, BioSTL has maintained a clear focus on workforce development, building a diverse, local talent pipeline that helps growing bioscience companies choose, and stay in St. Louis. BioSTL’s workforce development efforts span four connected areas:
- Facilitating partnerships and practices that drive hiring, advancement, and retention in quality bioscience-related jobs
- Delivering workforce training that builds industry-aligned skills to meet current and future employer needs
- Expanding career awareness and navigation systems that connect talent to industry opportunities and in-demand skills
- Building strong foundations through STEM education, exposure, and talent support
Together, the workforce development efforts at BioSTL are a critical part of the bioscience backbone that attracts companies, and the economic growth that follows, to St. Louis.
"We look forward to a deeper partnership—through volunteering, presenting, and connecting with BioSTL's entrepreneurial community," Gwen Mizell, Ameren Chief Sustainability Officer and President of the Ameren Charitable Foundation, said. "Together, we can empower the next generation of changemakers and help write the next chapter of our region's growth."
Ameren shares BioSTL’s long-standing commitment to STEM workforce development, community investment, and regional economic vitality. Their support will help strengthen St. Louis’ innovation ecosystem, advance the development and commercialization of emerging technologies, back startups focused on energy innovation and sustainability, expand access to STEM education and career pathways, and deepen collaboration among industry leaders like Ameren, higher education partners, investors, and community partners.
"With the generous support of partners like Ameren, BioSTL continues to serve as a regional leader driving the innovation economy in St. Louis," says Mike Higgins, VP of Development at BioSTL. “This partnership allows us to connect with and leverage the incredible talent at Ameren through volunteer and community engagement opportunities. Their generosity gives us the support we need to keep developing the entrepreneurs and companies that will shape St. Louis' economic future.”
About BioSTL
Founded in 2001, BioSTL, a non-profit with a bold vision, has turned the promise of ag tech and health innovation into global solutions and lasting impact for St. Louis. The organization’s work focuses on three areas of impact: startup creation, workforce development, and building regional capabilities and reputation. For more information: biostl.org
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Alyssa Coffey | 314-996-9296 (call or text) | acoffey@biostl.org