Successful biotechnology companies know that when it comes to selecting a location for their business, two factors top the list: a strong research capacity and an economic environment that can transform research into successful commercial activity.  Across the nation, 9 regions have proven to be leaders in these areas and account for 75% of the country's biotech firms, as well as 75% of the biotech companies born within the last 10 years.  4 of these metropolitan areas are concentrated within the Mid-Atlantic region.
                                                                     
One area, located strategically within the heart of this corridor, is poised to become the next biotechnology hot spot: Lehigh Valley, PA.

Located on the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border, the Lehigh Valley is rapidly gaining recognition within the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries for its ability to meet the diverse needs of both evolving and established businesses in these sectors.  In April 2006, LVEDC, the Southside Bethlehem Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ), which is administered by LVEDC, and KLIOS, Inc. completed a Life Sciences Study to investigate and assess the possible growth of the life sciences industry in the Lehigh Valley, and to define a series of recommendations for strategies and actions to support that growth.      

Olympus, a precision technology leader that is designing and delivering innovative solutions in healthcare and consumer electronics worldwide, recently announced their plans to relocate its North American headquarters from Long Island, New York to Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania.   

"Our company is involved in business areas that are and will remain very competitive. This relocation is one of the most critical factors that will contribute to our positioning the company for profitable growth for the next 25 years and beyond."  
- Mark Gumz, President & COO, Olympus America  

An extensive study was originally undertaken due to the expiring lease on its corporate headquarters. the analysis encompassed 16 different markets, ranging from the Midwest to the East Coast of the United States.  

"After an exhaustive multi-year review, the Lehigh Valley was determined to be the best place in America for our company to be doing business in the 21st Century.  That's quite a statement about both the resources and the potential for this region in the future. We look forward to establishing our corporate headquarters in the Lehigh Valley and contributing to this community, economically and in many other ways, beginning in 2006."  
- David Willard, Director of Marketing and Community Services, Olympus America               

To find out more about the BioPharm industry in Pennsylvania, please visit the following sites: