Biosciences, technology, advanced manufacturing, and business services - just a few of the diverse industries thriving within the borders of Pennsylvania. With a $2.8 billion Economic Stimulus Package, Pennsylvania is taking unprecedented steps to create jobs, retain talent, grow the economy, and position the Commonwealth for success. Commonwealth programs provide the capital necessary for growth and innovation, whether a company is a start-up or a second stage manufacturer.
These are just a few industries that benefit from living and growing in Pennsylvania:
High Technology
Pennsylvania is home to dozens of innovative programs and initiatives that are designed to stimulate the economy by providing the capital, infrastructure and talent necessary to create and retain high-paying, highly-skilled technology jobs. Pennsylvania is at the forefront of technology, and routinely attracts and grows firms.
- Next-Generation Electronics: Pennsylvania is at the intersection of the brightest university talent and sound business incubation, which provides fertile ground for research and development in order to come up with the newest, innovative technologies.
- Alternative Energy: Replacing consumed energy is a global problem that Pennsylvania's research and technology companies strive to solve. Industry strengths like the educated talent and business support offered by Pennsylvania provide fertile ground for the alternative energy industry to grow.
Biosciences
Pennsylvania encompasses the entire continuum of the biosciences – world-class basic research, emerging companies, mature industry and global pharmaceuticals. In that way, Pennsylvania fosters the groundbreaking research and innovation necessary to make astounding advances in biotechnology. With a focus on integrated bio-pharma manufacturing, biotech research, and medical equipment and devices, Pennsylvania is known for innovation. The following are just a few facts about the prosperous biosciences industry in Pennsylvania:
- 8 of the United States' largest pharmaceutical companies are located within a 50-mile radius of Philadelphia.
- 125 bio-pharma companies and more than 2,000 biosciences-related companies are located in Pennsylvania.
- Philadelphia has the 3rd most vibrant biosciences cluster in the nation, according to a June 2005 Milken Institute study.
- When asked her opinion of Pennsylvania’s biociences industry after a recent press tour of the Commonwealth, Genetic Engineering News editor Ellyn Kerr had much to say, labeling Pennsylvania as "Very advanced; the only region I’m aware of that truly has so much activity."
- Learn more about Pennsylvania's biosciences industry.
- Pennsylvania was home to the very successful BIO 2005 International Convention.
Advanced Manufacturing and Materials
Pennsylvania is a manufacturing-friendly state that is nationally recognized as a location to expand and relocate operations. Manufacturing is an essential element of Pennsylvania’s economy, contributing $64 billion annually to the Gross State Product. Industries such as powdered metals manufacturing, agro-food processing and prefabricated housing help Pennsylvania to be a national leader in production and research and development. Add to that a strong community of qualified workers, top universities, and long-term support throughout the lifecycle of an advanced manufacturing and materials company -- and it's no wonder that Pennsylvania is such a leader. That Pennsylvania is at the forefront of the industry is evidenced by the following facts:
- 4th in the nation in Industrial research and development funds in Pharmaceuticals (Milken).
- University of Pennsylvania is 3rd and the University of Pittsburgh is 8th in the nation for research and development funding received from the National Science Foundation.
- 5th in the number of Doctoral Scientist graduates (National Science Foundation).
- 7th in the number of Doctoral Engineer graduates (National Science Foundation).
- Research from our highly recognized colleges and universities, which include Pennsylvania College of Technology, and Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, keeps Pennsylvania's knowledge base high.
- With two of the five ABET-accredited schools providing the intellectual capital, Pennsylvania provides the plastics industry with a workforce trained to do the job.
- Pennsylvania's location provides vital access to markets, including Canada.
- Six out of 10 major US markets lie within a 500-mile radius of Pennsylvania’s capital.
- A 120,000-mile highway system, 134 public use airports, 69 railroads, more than 5,100 miles of railways, and 3 ports allow businesses to transport goods with ease.
- Electric and gas deregulation to save manufacturer's money.
Business Services
Pennsylvania is home to many industries from creative services like advertising and design to the financial services sector. Corporate headquarters like Alcoa and Shire Pharmaceuticals reside in the area, and provide thousands of skilled jobs to Pennsylvania's workers.
Pennsylvania has much to offer business and industry already in the state, as well as benefits for those looking to relocate their ventures to PA. Find financial assistance that could aid your company with the Department of Community and Economic Development's funding & program finder or learn more about business, technology, or international business initiatives. Or, learn more about successful businesses in Pennsylvania.
