Funding will help adMare BioInnovations create a 30,000 square foot innovation centre in Vancouver to propel local biotech research and development
British Columbia is home to a thriving life sciences sector, with over 2,000 companies employing more than 20,000 people across the province. However, the lack of specialized research facilities in B.C.'s Lower Mainland means that early-stage life sciences companies do not have the necessary resources to expand and advance their innovations.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced $6 million in PacifiCan funding for adMare BioInnovations to support the establishment of a new life sciences innovation centre in Vancouver. This investment will contribute to the construction of the 30,000 square foot facility, including installation of plumbing and electrical systems, HVAC upgrades and the purchase of laboratory equipment.
The centre, expected to open in 2026, will help meet the critical demand for wet lab space in Vancouver. A wet lab is a highly regulated research space where life sciences companies conduct hands-on experiments and develop innovative drug therapies. Many life sciences companies get their start at research centres and universities where they have access to a wet lab. However, they eventually need access to their own labs to scale up.
Once complete, the new centre will provide access to turnkey wet lab and office space for up to 10 life sciences companies at a time, allowing them to grow and develop life-saving therapies. These companies will also benefit from adMare's talent development programs which fosters innovation and growth in B.C.'s life sciences ecosystem.
Today's investment, through PacifiCan's Regional Innovation Ecosystems program, is expected to maintain and create over 100 quality jobs in British Columbia. The new centre will also help create solutions to global health challenges and strengthen B.C.'s leadership position in life sciences innovation.
