Eli Lilly Plans New Gateway Labs Facility in Philadelphia to Boost Biotech Innovation
Eli Lilly to Open New Gateway Labs in Philadelphia
Eli Lilly and Company has officially announced the development of its latest Lilly Gateway Labs (LGL) location in Philadelphia, a city with a rich history in biotechnology and medical innovation. This facility will occupy 44,000 square feet within the newly constructed 2300 Market, a prime life sciences building operated by Breakthrough Properties. This new initiative aims to foster collaboration and enhance opportunities for early-stage biotechnology companies.
A Commitment to Innovation
Lily's expansion into Philadelphia speaks volumes about its commitment to promoting scientific research and biotechnology innovation. The Gateway Labs facility will provide state-of-the-art lab infrastructure tailored to the unique needs of biotech firms. According to Julie Gilmore, Ph.D., vice president, and global head of Lilly Gateway Labs, Philadelphia's legacy as a hub for biotech innovation, highlighted by its historic contributions to vaccine development and cutting-edge treatments, makes it an ideal location for this initiative.
“Access to top-notch lab infrastructure is essential, and success for early-stage companies also requires experienced thought partners,” said Gilmore. The Gateway Labs model emphasizes tailored scientific engagement to boost the potential of emerging biotech firms, empowering them to navigate the challenging landscape from discovery through early clinical development.
Supporting Biotech Startups
The new site in Philadelphia will host a select group of innovative biotech startups, offering them access to fully-equipped wet lab facilities and valuable scientific advice. The Gateway Labs concept has proven effective since its inception in December 2019, with resident companies collectively securing over $3 billion in funding for over 50 therapeutic programs. This significantly underlines the critical role of infrastructure and expertise in supporting biopharmaceutical development.
By anchoring the Gateway Labs in Philadelphia, Eli Lilly is reinforcing its strategy of establishing innovative frameworks in areas where research excellence aligns with entrepreneurial aspirations. The city has evolved as a life sciences innovation hub due to its acclaimed academic medical centers and diverse patient demographics, providing fertile ground for nurturing groundbreaking biomedical research into practical healthcare solutions.
The Bigger Picture
Eli Lilly's growing network of Gateway Labs now spans four major innovation centers across the U.S., including Boston, South San Francisco, and San Diego. These locations are strategically selected to enhance collaboration among biotechnological firms, venture capitalists, and various ecosystem partners, collectively accelerating healthcare advancements.
Lilly Gateway Labs operates as part of the broader Lilly Catalyze360 initiative, which encompasses Lilly Ventures and other platforms designed to foster biotech innovation. The support provided by these ventures revolves around facilitating strategic capital, lab space, cutting-edge research and development capabilities, and advanced technology, which includes AI modeling.
As Eli Lilly continues to innovate and expand, it remains steadfast in its mission to improve global health outcomes through pioneering discoveries. The new Gateway Labs site promises to be a pivotal part of this journey, encouraging collaborations that drive the development of life-changing medicines for millions of people worldwide.
Conclusion
The establishment of Lilly Gateway Labs in Philadelphia marks another milestone in the evolution of biopharmaceutical research and innovation. With strong community ties and a focus on partnership and collaboration, Eli Lilly is positioning itself at the forefront of the biotechnology landscape, aiming to translate scientific discoveries into actionable healthcare solutions. As this new facility opens its doors, many in the biotech world are eagerly anticipating the advancements that may arise from its innovative ecosystem.