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As the global life sciences industry evolves, companies need more than just lab space; they’re looking for strategic hubs with access to talent, infrastructure, and State support. Illinois delivers on all three (and so much more), making it one of the most compelling locations in the U.S. for biotech, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, and health tech companies to grow.
A Deep-Rooted System of Innovation
Illinois’ powerhouse life sciences ecosystem is made exceptional by collaborative R&D institutions, corporate leaders, startups, and government partners. The state boasts over 705,000 life sciences jobs with nearly 20,000 firms contributing to a thriving innovation economy (top 10 in the U.S.).
From major players like AbbVie and Baxter to fast-growing startups emerging from university labs, Illinois supports companies at every stage of development, further supported by research giants like Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Talent at Scale
Illinois’ unmatched talent pipeline is one of the top reasons life sciences companies choose to expand or relocate here, as home to nearly 10 medical schools that produce world-class scientific talent.
In addition, Illinois’ central location gives companies access to a diverse and inclusive workforce across the Midwest and beyond. Thanks to a diverse range of scientists and regulatory experts to biomanufacturing technicians, companies in Illinois can build out highly specialized teams with ease. The data shows that Illinois, in comparison to peer states such as Massachusetts, Washington, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Utah, and New York, offers a more abundant workforce across many life sciences titles and for a cheaper cost on average.
Plus, with an emphasis on equity, the state is focused on closing gaps in opportunity, offering workforce training and community college partnerships aimed at upskilling the next generation of professionals from historically underserved communities. In fact, Illinois’ community college system is the 3rd largest in the U.S., offering access to talent uniquely prepared for the life sciences industry of tomorrow.
Infrastructure Built for Discovery and Delivery
Innovation is only as effective as the ability to deliver it—fast and reliably. Illinois’ infrastructure advantage gives life sciences companies the power to do both. Our state offers:
- Two international airports (Midway and O’Hare, the latter of which is ranked the most-connected airport in the U.S. and top 10 in the world)
- Over 2.1K miles of interstate highway (the 3rd largest system in the U.S.)
- North America’s largest inland port (CenterPoint Intermodal Center in Joliet/Elwood)
- Access to six Class I railroads that meet not just in one but two locations (exclusive to Illinois)
This makes Illinois a hub for both R&D and a launchpad for global distribution of diagnostics, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, lab-ready real estate is, on average, less than half the cost of the East and West Coasts, boosting the bottom line of those that choose to #BeInIllinois.
Business-Friendly, Growth-Focused
Illinois is committed to helping life sciences companies succeed through favorable incentives and tax credit programs.
The Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) Act, while focused on clean energy and manufacturing, also supports crossover innovations like biotech batteries and MedTech materials.
And Illinois’ EDGE Tax Credit Program provides generous support for companies creating new jobs in high-growth sectors like life sciences—including a prioritization of site readiness and workforce development. Acknowledging companies in their early stages (incorporated within the 10 years prior to application), EDGE for Startups is a tax credit incentive program designed to encourage startups to invest, create, and retain jobs in Illinois.
The Future of Life Sciences Starts Here
With a flourishing ecosystem, workforce depth and specialization, global accessibility, and a government committed to innovation and equity, Illinois is a great place for science—and a state built for business.
If you have a project, check out our Vetted Sites program. (New! Check out our latest partnership with Ameren to advance Illinois’ site readiness commitment!) If you’d like to learn more, contact our team to explore opportunities for expansion or relocation today.
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