North Carolina is home to a broad range of natural resources and scientific expertise. Leveraging that diversity has the potential to create biotechnology-related jobs - and replace those lost in traditional industries - throughout the state.
In 2003, Biotechnology Center opened its Piedmont Triad office, marking the first milestone in the Project to Strengthen Biotechnology Statewide. The effort to reach to all corners of the state was formalized in the statewide strategic plan in 2004.
With five regional offices, the blueprint for statewide expansion is a permanent footprint. In partnership with regional leaders, Biotechnology Center staff create events and programs specific to each area's strengths, whether those strengths are forestry, marine science, natural products or medical devices.
Our Regional Development Grant program supports planning, marketing, infrastructure development and other activities necessary for industry growth in a specific area. To date, the program has awarded approximately $700,000, boosting efforts to analyze market potential in Asheville, create an internship network in the Piedmont Triad, and much more.
The Regional Exchange Group program provides funding for discussion groups throughout the state that foster scientific information exchange, industry and academic partnerships, and professional networking opportunities. The Regional Offices of the NC Biotechnology Center assist interested persons in establishing Regional Exchange Groups.
While our entire staff focuses attention statewide, two-person offices in each region take the lead on specific activities in these areas: