The life sciences industry is South Carolina’s fastest growing sector, accounting for an annual economic impact of $25.7 billion. With high growth potential and average wages nearly 80% above the state’s average, the industry’s upward trajectory is part of its selection as one of three target sectors in S.C. Commerce’s new strategic framework to guide future economic development efforts, announced in January 2024.
To celebrate the industry’s accomplishments, statewide life sciences organization SCbio hosted its BIO 2024 conference Feb. 6-8, 2024, in Greenville, S.C. The event united attendees from more than 25 states and representatives from over 200 organizations throughout the life sciences ecosystem for discussions central to the theme, “The Science of Success.” SCbio also unveiled its new SCbioDrive accelerator program for early-stage life sciences startups — developed in partnership with MassBio — which will further expand South Carolina’s entry-points and opportunities for life sciences businesses of all sizes.
S.C. Commerce Deputy Secretary Ashely Teasdel (left) discusses the life sciences industry’s current and future economic impact with SCbio President and CEO James Chappell (right) during BIO 2024.
As the state’s life sciences industry evolves, existing success stories are being born every day — some of which have been decades in the making. Nephron Pharmaceuticals, with headquarters and manufacturing operations in West Columbia, has announced multiple expansions since arriving in Lexington County. Today, the company produces more than a billion doses of medication annually and is one of the world’s largest blow-fill-seal manufacturers.
Nephron Pharmaceuticals President and CEO Lou Kennedy is one of four South Carolina CEOs featured in S.C. Commerce’s “Launch to Legacy” campaign. Learn more at www.sclaunchtolegacy.com.
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