7 Proof Points For Greater Portland's Emerging Bioscience Sector

By Anna Marum

Greater Portland's bioscience sector is booming. Genentech has expanded its operations here twice, and startups like AbSci and Twist Bioscience are growing quickly, thanks in part to large infusions of cash. Here's what local executives and industry experts had to say about the region's thriving bioscience cluster in our latest industry tour.

On talent:
"We've expanded in the region twice. And the reason for that is access to talent, whether it be attracting talent from our organization down in the Bay Area or from other parts around the country. Portland's a place that people want to move to." -- Tim Brown, Vice President and General Manager at Genentech Hillsboro campus

"We have a robust talent pipeline, especially in R&D. We at OHSU have about just over 5,000 students and trainees coming from our four schools: medicine, nursing, dentistry, public health and pharmacy. – Aditi Martin, Senior Director of Oregon Health & Science University's Collaborations and Entrepreneurship Office

On accessing capital:
"It has not been an issue. We got early support from local and regional investors, and in our more recent rounds, we've been able to access capital from nationally recognized top tier life science investors despite not being in their backyard." -- Matthew Weinstock, Chief Technology Officer, AbSci

On affordability:
"The Greater Portland area, when it comes to making a decision to locate on the West Coast, is very affordable. The labor costs are reasonable. The cost of living for employees, the housing market, it's all affordable. So we are able to expand and grow here without worrying about that having a negative impact on our P&L statement." -- Sharon Wolfington, President and CEO of Acumed

On livability:
"We’re located in a beautiful area where I have access to hiking, camping and skiing, something that you don't get in some of the other biotech hubs." -- Matthew Weinstock, Chief Technology Officer, AbSci

On the culture:
"One of the things that I think we've really benefitted from being here in Portland is this spirit of innovation. Portland is always trying to do something different and wants to be on that edge." -- Tim Brown, Vice President and General Manager at Genentech Hillsboro campus

"The Northwest ethos is one of caring and compassion, and that's perfect when you're in the biotech or the medical device business, because we rely on people that are highly motivated, but also people that have a high level of compassion and they bring that to work each day." -- Sharon Wolfington, President and CEO of Acumed

If you missed the event, you can watch the recording below, or on our YouTube channel.

Set up a meeting today!
Are you interested in learning more about Greater Portland's business advantages? Contact Amy Jauron or Bret Marchant on the GPI business development team today.

Mark your calendar for our next industry tour: food & beverage
Greater Portland is a world leader in the food and beverage space. Bob's Red Mill, Salt & Straw, Pacific Seafood and countless other big-name companies got their start or found success here. Learn more about our winning food and beverage sector from industry experts and local company leaders at our next virtual industry tour, happening June 9, 2021.