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Author: Amanda Bosland

Samsung Biologics expands U.S. manufacturing capabilities with strategic acquisition of Human Genome Sciences from GSK

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Aerial view of commercial buildings with two highlighted
Aerial view of cGMP manufacturing plants - Image credit: Samsung Biologics

Samsung Biologics will acquire the Rockville assets for $280 million and will also retain more than 500 employees

Incheon, S. KOREA, Maryland, United States, London, UK, December 22, 2025 – Samsung Biologics (KRX: 207940.KS), a leading contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), today announced that its wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, Samsung Biologics America, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Human Genome Sciences from GSK (LSE/NYSE: GSK). This strategic move secures Samsung Biologics’ first U.S.-based manufacturing site, a significant expansion of the company’s global footprint and its long-term commitment to the U.S. market.

Located in Rockville, Maryland, the facility sits at the center of one of the key U.S. bio-clusters and encompasses two cGMP manufacturing plants with a combined 60,000 liters of drug substance capacity, supporting both clinical and commercial production from small to large scale. Existing products will continue to be manufactured at the site, and Samsung Biologics plans to make additional investments to expand the site’s capacity and upgrade technology to further support a more resilient U.S. supply chain for critical biologic medicines.

Under the terms of the agreement, with closing anticipated toward the end of Q1 of 2026, Samsung Biologics will acquire the Rockville assets for USD 280 million. The company will also retain more than 500 employees at the site to ensure operational continuity and stability. By integrating this facility into our global network, Samsung Biologics will provide clients with flexible, multi-site options in both the U.S. and Korea to ensure that live-saving therapeutics are reliably available to American patients.

Samsung Biologics has established a proven track record of operational and construction excellence through on-time completion of its Bio Campus I and II, and also recently secured land for Bio Campus III, which will house distinct R&D and manufacturing programs for new modalities. With 785,000 liters of capacity across five plants, the industry’s leading capacity, Samsung Biologics continues to advance its diversified portfolio spanning monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), mRNA, organoid-based services, and next-generation therapies.

“This landmark acquisition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to advancing global healthcare and bolstering our manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. The investment will enable us to deepen our collaboration with federal, state, and local stakeholders to best serve our customers and partners while ensuring a reliable and stable supply of life-saving therapeutics,” said John Rim, CEO and President of Samsung Biologics. “This marks an important step forward in our mission to achieve a better life through biomedicines, and we look forward to building on the legacy of this facility as we welcome experienced colleagues to the Samsung Biologics family and continue delivering innovative solutions that make a meaningful impact.”

Regis Simard, President, Global Supply Chain, GSK, said: “Today’s agreement to divest the Rockville manufacturing site to our valued long-term partner, Samsung Biologics, will secure the manufacture of two important medicines on US soil for US patients and further build GSK’s supply chain resilience. Along with GSK’s recent commitment to invest $30bn in R&D and manufacturing in the US over the next 5 years, this deal enables us to further focus on building the agility, capacity and capability needed in our manufacturing network to deliver the next generation of specialty medicines and vaccines. I am confident in a positive partnership and future for the Rockville site.”

About Samsung Biologics

Samsung Biologics is a fully integrated, end-to-end CDMO service provider, offering seamless development and manufacturing solutions – from cell line development to final aseptic fill/finish – as well as comprehensive laboratory testing services at every stage of biopharmaceutical products. Learn more at samsungbiologics.com

Press release orginally published by Samsung Biologics: https://samsungbiologics.com/media/company-news/samsung-biologics-expands-u-s–manufacturing-capabilities-with-strategic-acquisition-from-gsk

Rockville’s Rise Therapeutics receives TEDCO SBIR/STTR Matching Funds

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

Rise Therapeutics is developing first-in-class oral immune biomodulators for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and cancer.

Rise Therapeutics, a clinical-stage immunotherapy company headquartered in Rockville’s Biotech Corridor, was among 13 Maryland companies to receive funding through TEDCO’s latest SBIR/STTR Matching Funds awards. The program distributed $875,000 across two rounds, with 11 companies, including Rise Therapeutics who received $75,000 in Phase II matching funds.

The SBIR/STTR Matching Funds program strengthens the impact of federal Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer awards by providing supplemental state funding to promote commercialization and job creation.

Rise Therapeutics is developing first-in-class oral immune biomodulators for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and cancer. Unlike traditional biological therapies requiring injection or infusion, the company’s proprietary platform delivers targeted protein therapy through oral capsules. Rise currently has four programs in clinical testing, including therapies for ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s disease, and cancer.

The company operates a GMP manufacturing facility in Rockville and has previously received TEDCO Seed Funds investment as well as NIH funding to support its clinical development.

Learn more about TEDCO’s SBIR/STTR Matching Funds program at tedcomd.com/funding/federal-programs/sbirsttr-matching-funds

About Rise Therapeutics

Rise Therapeutics is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing first-in-class Oral Immune Biomodulators, for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and cancer. With a fully integrated research and product development infrastructure, the team leverages innovative scientific discoveries to drive novel drug development through human clinical proof-of-concept. Learn more at risetherapeutics.com

About TEDCO

TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. – RFP for Biotech Corridor Website Feature Expansion

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

REDI seeks to expand the Biotech Corridor website functionality with four interactive, user-driven features that will better serve companies, entrepreneurs, investors and other stakeholders.

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is accepting Request for Proposals (RFP) for feature enhancements to the Biotech Corridor website – biotechcorridor.com.

The Biotech Corridor is a placemaking and economic development initiative launched by Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) to highlight Rockville’s position as Maryland’s premier biotech and life sciences hub. With one of the highest concentrations of biotech companies in the state, Rockville serves as a strategic location for industry growth, innovation, and collaboration.

The Biotech Corridor website functions as a digital hub for the region’s biotech ecosystem. To enhance its utility and engagement, REDI seeks to expand the site’s functionality with four interactive, user-driven features that will better serve companies, entrepreneurs, investors and other stakeholders.

Proposals are due on Monday, December 29, 2025. For further details, contact Amanda Bosland at amanda@rockvilleredi.org. 

Learn more about the RFP here. Revised on December 18, 2025: Revised RFP

RFP Questions and Answers

View questions and answers about the Biotech Corridor Website Feature Expansion here. Updated on December 23, 2025: Updated Questions and Answers

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. – RFP for Fundraising Feasibility Study

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Logo of Rockville Economic Development, Inc. Maryland with the slogan In the business of connection

The study should provide guidance on the attainable funding goals, fundraising approach, and possible sources of revenue

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is accepting Request for Proposals (RFP) for the creation a fundraising feasibility study.

REDI is a 501(c)3 economic development agency serving Rockville, Maryland.

REDI’s strategic plan focuses on the biotech industry sector, which in Maryland has been designated as the third strongest bio/life science cluster in the United States particularly due to the talent pool and proximity to federal agencies. REDI also focuses on small-scale manufacturing, small business, and emerging technology companies. 

One of REDI’s key programs is a federal Small Business Administration (SBA) certified Women’s Business Center, the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) that provides technical assistance to entrepreneurs. 

The proposed fundraising feasibility study should provide guidance on the attainable funding goals, fundraising approach, and possible sources of revenue including individual, foundation, and other funding sources.   Consultant will be expected to present the final findings to the REDI Board. 

Proposals are due on Monday, December 22, 2025. For further details, contact Cynthia Rivarde at cindy@rockvilleredi.org.

Learn more about the RFP here.

RFP Questions and Answers

View questions and answers about the Fundraising Feasibility Study here.

Maryland Commerce Secretary Harry Coker Jr. visits Montgomery County businesses driving growth in target industries

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Secretary Coker Jr., City of Rockville Mayor Ashton, REDI and MCEDC officials and Omega 3 Nutrition CEO, Edwin Djampa

Secretary Coker Jr.'s visits recognized the businesses’ contributions to the state’s economy and provided an opportunity to learn more about their work and growth.

Montgomery County, Md., Nov. 14, 2025  – Maryland’s Secretary of Commerce Harry Coker Jr., alongside representatives from the Montgomery County Government, the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC), BioHub, and Rockville Economic Development Inc., visited four Montgomery County businesses across the Technology, Life Sciences and Hospitality industries, which are key target industries for the State of Maryland. The visits recognized the businesses’ contributions to the state’s economy and provided an opportunity to learn more about their work and growth. The companies visited included Omega 3 Nutrition, X-energy, DEKA Biosciences, and Donohoe Hospitality Services. 

“Montgomery County represents some of the very best in Maryland innovation. The businesses we visited reflect the strength, diversity, and collaboration that define our state’s business community,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, Jr. “We could visit businesses in Montgomery County all day, every day for a month and still barely scratch the surface of what makes this county such a crucial economic engine for our state. I’m deeply grateful to our partners in Montgomery County for welcoming us and sharing their incredible work.” 

“Montgomery County is home to remarkable companies that are shaping the future of science, technology, and hospitality,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “I appreciate Secretary Coker spending time with us to see that work up close. We are building an economy rooted in innovation, talent, and shared prosperity. We will continue working with the Moore/Miller Administration to support companies that create good jobs, strengthen our communities, and keep Maryland at the forefront of discovery and economic growth.” 

All four companies exemplify the forward-thinking businesses that thrive within Montgomery County’s dynamic business ecosystem. Maryland-founded and Rockville-based Omega 3 Nutrition, a nutrition brand dedicated to enhancing brain health through organic, brain-boosting ingredients, recently closed an oversubscribed seed round with investment from the Maryland Momentum Fund. 

X-energy, a leading nuclear reactor and fuel design technology company focused on clean energy generation, recently announced plans to consolidate its two Rockville offices into a new 125,000-square-foot headquarters at Washingtonian Center in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The company plans to retain 260 full-time employees and create more than 525 new jobs over the next six years.

Germantown-based DEKA Biosciences is an early-stage biotechnology company pioneering next-generation targeted cytokine therapies to treat cancer and inflammatory diseases. Meanwhile, Donohoe Hospitality Services is one of the largest independent hotel management companies in the region, representing over $1 billion in hotel asset value.  

“Thank you to Secretary Coker for recognizing the important work these companies are doing to advance Maryland’s leadership in innovation and economic growth,” said Elana Fine, MCEDC Board Chair. “These companies showcase why Montgomery County is a leading destination for talent and investment across all industries. We’re proud to support their continued success and to help foster a business environment where groundbreaking companies flourish.” 

Montgomery County serves as the anchor to the nation’s third-largest biopharma hub and is a growing global technology cluster. With more than 3,000 establishments in life sciences, technology, and advanced satellite communications, the County continues to drive Maryland’s economy and reinforce the state’s reputation as a hub for high-growth industries.

About Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) 

The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation serves as the official economic development entity for Montgomery County, Maryland to accelerate business development, attraction, retention and expansion in key industry sectors while advancing equitable and inclusive economic growth. MCEDC operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public-private partnership and is funded by Montgomery County. Learn more at thinkmoco.com.

About Montgomery County Government

Montgomery County, Maryland, is the largest county in the State of Maryland with over 1.1 million residents. Strategically located near Washington D.C, the county anchors the nation’s third-largest biopharma hub and is home to 18 federal agencies including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). With a highly diverse population and deep pool of skilled talent, Montgomery County, Maryland plays a vital role in shaping the future of life sciences, advanced technology, and innovation. Learn more at montgomerycountymd.gov

Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center Opens in Montgomery County, Maryland

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Federal Workforce Career Center building in background with driveway in the foreground
Federal Workforce Career Center at the Wheaton American Job Center - Image credit: Google Maps

The first of its kind center in the nation will provide personalized support and services to displaced federal workers.

Montgomery County, Md., Oct. 9, 2025 – The Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center (FWCC) held a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark its official opening. Funded by the Montgomery County Government, the FWCC is the first of its kind physical location in the United States dedicated to supporting displaced federal workers through personalized services and programs.

“The Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center is the first facility of its kind in the nation, and it was made possible because we had the foresight to include an additional $700,000 in the FY26 budget for WorkSource Montgomery to expand its operations and prepare for the job losses we feared were coming,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “We are grateful for the partnership of Governor Wes Moore and the State of Maryland, and for the tireless efforts of our Congressional delegation to protect and preserve the critical work done by federal employees. While I’m pleased that Montgomery County can offer this center to help people transition into new opportunities, it is unfortunate that these workers have been forced into this position by the decisions of the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans. These are hardworking people who have dedicated their lives to public service, and they deserve better.”

Foresight was key in getting this center open now, just days into the federal shutdown.

“When we saw things starting to get uncertain in January, we listened to the federal workers and contractors. We knew Montgomery County needed to address this unique workforce crisis. The creation of Mobilize Montgomery, in partnership with WorkSource Montgomery, means we have created an actual place that those federal workers can come to for assistance,” said Kate Stewart, Montgomery County Council President. “Montgomery County supports neighbors in their time of need. It is who we are, and seeing this center open is a testament to how we look out for our residents.”

Located within the Wheaton American Job Center at 11510 Georgia Avenue in Wheaton, MD, this space will welcome displaced federal workers, contractors, and others navigating career transitions due to the ongoing federal workforce reductions. Montgomery County residents will be able to benefit from federal resume and job placement assistance, career and entrepreneurial coaching, and professional development programs. Additionally, jobseekers will be able to utilize the full scope of WorkSource Montgomery’s American Job Center’s services, including free virtual and in-person workshops, financial counseling services through the Financial Empowerment Center, and onsite access to Maryland Department of Labor staff who can assist with unemployment insurance (UI) questions. Services offered at the FWCC are for Montgomery County residents, however some events such as job fairs may be open to the broader public. For residents of other counties and states, the FWCC team will be ready to provide them with information for their local job centers in Prince George’s County, Northern Virginia, the District of Columbia, and other jurisdictions.

“The launch of the FWCC symbolizes Montgomery County’s ongoing commitment to supporting federal workers and contractors in our region through this difficult time,” said Michael Covin, Director of the FWCC. “We stand ready to help them through in-person and personalized services and ensure that they don’t need to navigate these challenging times alone.”

The FWCC will be open Monday – Thursday from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Jobseekers interested in utilizing the FWCC’s services should follow the three-step process listed on the Mobilize Montgomery website at mobilize-montgomery.com/fwcc. While walk-ins are accepted, the FWCC recommends making an appointment. Jobseekers who need help or have questions, should email fwcc@worksourcemontgomery.com or call 240-283-1509.

“The opening of the Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center reflects Montgomery County’s forward-thinking approach to supporting both our workforce and our business community. Federal workers and contractors play a crucial role in our local economy, and by helping them transition, retrain, and reengage in new opportunities, we are strengthening the overall economic resilience of our region,” said Angela Franco, President and CEO, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. “MCCC and all the local chambers are proud to partner in this effort to ensure that Montgomery County remains a hub for talent, innovation, and inclusive growth.”

“Montgomery County businesses and federal contractors have felt the harsh effects of the federal budget cuts, and now the government shutdown, over the past few months,” said Elana Fine, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation Board Chair. “The launch of the FWCC is a crucial step in ensuring that residents and businesses in Montgomery County know that the local government and key stakeholders are standing with them during this challenging time, and are working to make sure that our business ecosystem remains resilient.”

About Mobilize Montgomery

Mobilize Montgomery is a collaboration that brings together state and local governments and private sector partners in Montgomery County, Maryland, including: The Montgomery County Government, the Maryland Department of Labor, WorkSource Montgomery, the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, Rockville Economic Development Incorporated, City of Rockville, City of Gaithersburg, the City of Gaithersburg’s Office of Economic Development, the Maryland Women’s Business Center, Montgomery County African American Chamber of Commerce, the Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and local chambers of commerce for Rockville, Olney, Greater Silver Spring, Greater Bethesda, and Gaithersburg-Germantown. Launched in March 2025, Mobilize Montgomery was created to provide streamlined support, connecting employers and employees to financial assistance, workforce programs, and business continuity resources. Learn more at mobilize-montgomery.com

Rockville’s MOVE and Business Expansion Grants Drive FY25 Growth, Creating Jobs and Attracting Companies

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

Since their inception, REDI's MOVE and Business Expansion programs have awarded $845,000 in funding

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) awarded nearly $300,000 in grant funding through its MOVE and Business Expansion programs in Fiscal Year 2025, supporting business growth across the city and resulting in 260 new jobs and more than 127,000 square feet of activated commercial space.  

The funding supported businesses across diverse industries including life sciences, healthcare, clean energy, technology, and professional services. Grant recipients expanded or relocated into commercial spaces in Town Center, King Farm, Fallsgrove, Rock East, Twinbrook, and the Pike Corridor.

The programs are also attracting investment from outside of Rockville. Twenty percent of FY25 grantees relocated operations from out of state, choosing Rockville over competing locations in Northern Virginia and Massachusetts.

“What we’re seeing is a strong return on investment,” said Nancy Regelin, Board Chair at REDI. “These programs aren’t just helping businesses grow, but are boosting Rockville’s economy, strengthening our tax base, and creating opportunities for residents across the city.”

Since their inception, REDI’s MOVE and Business Expansion programs have awarded $845,000 in funding, solidifying Rockville’s reputation as a destination for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth.

Spectrum Fertility Group, a Massachusetts-based In Vitro Fertilization company cited REDI’s programs as pivotal in their decision to locate in Rockville:

“As a biotech startup company, it was very important to find Spectrum Fertility Group a place to set up our lab that we could really call home. After an extensive search across multiple cities, we decided on Rockville, Maryland. I think this has been one of the best decisions our company has made,” said Mike Lee, Chief Operating Officer of Spectrum Fertility Group. “The State of Maryland, City of Rockville and Montgomery County have been so biotech friendly. We love it here, and look forward to growing our business.”

For more information about REDI’s business incentive programs, visit rockvilleredi.org/business-grants-loans.

About REDI 

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a public-private partnership that helps business launch, locate and expand in Rockville, Maryland. Committed to economic development, REDI is proactive in supporting existing industries and attracting new companies with the tools to get started in Rockville, and the resources and guidance for existing companies in the city. Learn more at rockvilleredi.org.

Seven Rockville companies featured on Washington Business Journal’s largest bioscience employers list

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Lab worker writing on test tube

Rockville, the epicenter of the Biotech Corridor is home to a concentration of bioscience companies and research institutions

The Washington Business Journal recently released its 2025 list of the 50 largest bioscience employers in the Washington metropolitan area. Seven companies located in the City of Rockville’s Biotech Corridor were included in the rankings, based on their reported number of metro-area employees.

The Biotech Corridor is home to a concentration of bioscience companies and research institutions concentrated in Rockville. The Corridor’s biotech and life sciences companies feature specializations including clinical research, diagnostics, biopharmaceuticals, and biologics manufacturing. The City of Rockville serves as a hub due to its proximity to federal health agencies, academic institutions, and established industry infrastructure.

The following companies within the City of Rockville are ranked among the region’s largest bioscience employers:

View the list of Washington Business Journal’s 2025 ranking of bioscience employers in the region at bizjournals.com/washington/subscriber-only/2025/08/08/here-are-the-50-largest-bioscience-employers-in-greater.html

Maryland tops U.S. Community College System Study with Montgomery College Leading State Rankings

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Photo of a large silver lettered 'Montgomery College' sign outdoors
Montgomery College Rockville Campus - Image credit: Montgomery College

Montgomery College ranked first among Maryland institutions and 17th nationwide

Maryland’s community college system has been ranked the best in the country, according to WalletHub’s 2025 report evaluating over 650 community colleges across the United States. This recognition reflects the strength of Maryland’s commitment to accessible, high-quality, and career-focused education.

At the forefront of this achievement is Montgomery College, which ranked first among Maryland institutions and 17th nationwide. With campuses in Rockville, Germantown, and Takoma Park/Silver Spring, Montgomery College continues to stand out for delivering excellent outcomes and supporting student success.

WalletHub evaluated community colleges and state systems using three primary metrics:

  • Cost & Financing: Tuition and fees, availability of scholarships and grants, and student loan default rates.

  • Education Outcomes: Graduation and transfer rates, student retention, and student-faculty ratio.

  • Career Outcomes: Median salary after attending, employment rates, and return on educational investment.

The report also highlights how Maryland’s high-performing institutions, including Montgomery College, offer strong academic value and workforce alignment, making the state a national leader in two-year higher education.

View the full rankings and methodology at: wallethub.com/edu/e/states-with-best-worst-community-college-systems/15073

 

BioHealth Capital Region Claims #3 Spot Among Top U.S. Biopharma Clusters in 2025

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Aerial photo of NIH Clinical Center building
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center - Image credit: National Institutes of Health

The region's third-place ranking is backed by strong performance across metrics including patents, NIH funding, venture capital funding, lab space, and number of jobs

The BioHealth Capital Region, covering Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C., ranked as the nation’s third-largest biomedical and pharmaceutical cluster, according to Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News’ annual list of top U.S. Biopharma regions. 

Despite challenges like federal funding cuts and workforce reductions at agencies such as the FDA and NIH, the region remains resilient, continuing to attract leading companies and institutions. Its competitiveness reflects decades of scientific excellence. The region’s third-place ranking is backed by strong performance across key biotech metrics. It leads the U.S. in patent production with 79,141 patent families in biotechnology, demonstrating groundbreaking research.

The BioHealth Capital Region ranked third in laboratory space, with 36.8 million square feet of cutting-edge facilities, including the NIH’s 9.2 million square feet in Bethesda. This infrastructure drives innovation and scientific progress. With 4,806 awards worth $3.639 billion in NIH funding, the area ranked third, underscoring confidence in its research capabilities despite budget pressures.

Activity in the Biotech Corridor including AstraZeneca’s $300 million cell therapy manufacturing facility and MilliporeSigma’s $286 million biosafety testing facility have added hundreds of high-paying jobs, cementing the region as a global hub for next-generation therapeutics.

Read the full list of 2025 Top 10 U.S. Biopharma Clusters at www.genengnews.com/topics/drug-discovery/top-10-u-s-biopharma-clusters-2025/