Alexandria, Va (October 21, 2026) — The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) welcomes the return of its flagship North American conference, the Plasma Protein Forum (PPF), taking place November 3–4 in Alexandria, Virginia, at The Westin Alexandria Old Town.
PPF is the premier gathering for the plasma protein therapeutics industry in North America, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, health care providers, researchers and patients to explore the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities shaping the industry.
This year's theme is "Driving Progress in Plasma: Strengthening the Plasma Ecosystem Through Science, Policy, and Partnership." Programming will examine the evolving landscape of health care policy, scientific and technological advancements, and the partnerships needed to strengthen the plasma ecosystem and support continued patient access to plasma-derived medicines.
“The Plasma Protein Forum provides an opportunity to exchange perspectives, address shared challenges, and support continued innovation and access to plasma-derived medicines for patients around the world,” said Sharon Pearce, PPTA Vice President, Government Affairs.
Featured sessions and events of PPF 2026 include:
- PPF will open with a welcome from PPTA President & CEO Anita Brikman, followed by a keynote fireside chat featuring Dr. Thom Mayer, Medical Director of the NFL Players Association, moderated by Dr. Walter Kelley of Takeda/BioLife.
- Day 1 sessions will explore the evolving U.S. political landscape and its implications for health care and the plasma industry, alongside discussions on policy, industry priorities, and opportunities for collaboration. A plenary session focused on a special election-day analysis conversation will feature insights from Capitol Hill leaders, as well as leading D.C. media voices.
- Day 2 will begin with a keynote presentation from communications strategist Jake Maccoby, who will share insights on effective communication, navigating complex issues, and engaging audiences. The conference will close with a panel of patient influencers and content creators, who will explore how to develop meaningful collaborations and navigate the evolving landscape of influencer marketing.
- All sessions and speakers can be viewed at www.pptaglobal.org/events/plasma-protein-forum.
The Forum will also be followed by PPTA's members-only Business Forum on November 4. This exclusive gathering will provide a setting for member companies to engage in strategic discussions, exchange perspectives on shared business challenges, and explore opportunities for continued industry collaboration.
“Progress in the plasma industry depends on the collective expertise and commitment of the entire community,” said Joshua Penrod, PPTA Senior Vice President, Global Plasma & Technical Advocacy. “Through open dialogue and collaboration, the Plasma Protein Forum helps advance conversations that are essential to strengthening the industry and ensuring patients continue to have access to the plasma-derived medicines they depend on.”
“The PPTA Members-Only Business Forum is more than a conference — it is a catalyst for ideas, collaboration, and progress across the plasma protein therapies community,” said Nelli Cherny, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Kedplasma. “Each year, it brings together visionary leaders and innovators to explore emerging challenges, uncover new opportunities, and help shape the future of our industry. What makes the Business Forum truly exceptional is the unique opportunity to engage with peers who share a common purpose, gain fresh perspectives from industry experts, and forge the relationships that inspire innovation, advance patient impact, and drive meaningful change.”
Registration is now open at www.pptaglobal.org/events/plasma-protein-forum. Plasma industry professionals, patients, advocates, and health care providers are encouraged to attend. Members of the media are welcome and may email media@pptaglobal.org to request press credentials.
To learn more about PPTA, visit www.pptaglobal.org.


