North Carolina is leading the nation in developing biotech research and manufacturing. In 2003, Golden LEAF announced a $60 million biotech initiative that immediately focused national attention on North Carolina. The Golden LEAF biotech initiative already is proving to be transformational.

Construction of worldclass facilities is under way at North Carolina State University and North Carolina Central University to train workers in simulated “clean” environments and to offer specialized degrees in biotechnology. North Carolina’s community colleges are a vital part of the initiative and the feeder system that is capped at the university level. In 2005, 874 people were enrolled in 17 associate biotechnology degree programs at the state’s community colleges, most in Golden Leaf-funded programs. More than 500 completed a one-semester technician certificate. By contrast, in Massachusetts – along with California, North Carolina’s primary competition in biotechnology – only 13 associate degrees were awarded in 2005, according to the Boston Globe.

For many years, North Carolina was known for its biotech research facilities, located mainly in the Triangle. Now, with a new emphasis on biomanufacturing as well as research, workers throughout the state are benefiting. Within a few years, the economic benefits of Golden LEAF’s biotech initiative – already significant – will be enormous.