The newly released TECONOMY/BIO report, “The U.S. Bioscience Economy: Driving Economic Growth and Opportunity in States and Regions,” paints an impressive picture of Illinois’ life sciences industry. The data reveals an industry that’s not just growing – it’s thriving and creating significant economic opportunity while establishing Illinois as a national leader in life sciences innovation.
Jobs and Economic Impact
The numbers are striking: Illinois’ life sciences industry has grown employment by 7.5% since 2019, expanding at 20 times the rate of the overall private sector. Today, nearly 5,000 establishments employ 93,402 workers in high-value careers that average $153,000 annually – more than double the state’s private sector average.
Research Excellence Drives Innovation
Illinois ranks among the top 10 states nationally for academic R&D expenditures, with our world-class research universities conducting $2.0 billion in bioscience research in 2023. The state also places in the top 10 for NIH funding, with Illinois institutions securing $1.2 billion in 2023, marking a 20% increase since 2019. This scientific leadership is further evidenced by Illinois ranking in the top 10 states for patents filed, demonstrating our strength in translating research into intellectual property.
Strong Investment Interest
The investment community has shown exceptional confidence in Illinois’ life sciences ecosystem, ranking 4th nationally in venture capital investment. Companies attracted $11.1 billion in venture capital funding between 2019 and 2023, solidifying Illinois’ position as a premier destination for life sciences investment.
“What’s particularly exciting is how our ecosystem continues to expand and mature,” says John Conrad, President and CEO of iBIO. “Our world-class research universities are powerful drivers of discovery, and our top-tier national rankings in R&D, NIH funding, patents, and venture capital demonstrate the tremendous confidence in Illinois’ life sciences ecosystem.”
Looking Ahead
The growth aligns with Governor Pritzker’s economic plan for Illinois, which identifies life sciences as a key industry for the state’s future. iBIO looks forward to working with the administration to implement programs that can help innovative companies bridge critical funding gaps and scale their operations.
“Beyond the impressive economic metrics lies an even more important truth,” Conrad notes. “Every breakthrough in our labs, every startup we launch, and every job we create brings us closer to treatments and cures that help people live longer, healthier lives. That’s what truly drives us forward.”
As Illinois’ life sciences industry continues to evolve and grow, it’s not just building an economic engine – it’s creating hope for patients and families across the globe. With continued support and investment, the future of life sciences in Illinois looks brighter than ever.