Chicago is where discovery happens every day.
Our world-class universities, research institutions, and biotech ecosystem are advancing the next generation of life-changing breakthroughs.
Chicago is building the future of life sciences — a dynamic ecosystem where research, technology, and investment converge.
Anchored by globally recognized universities, national labs, medical incubators and top hospitals, the Chicagoland region is rapidly expanding its lab space and commercialization capacity.
The city's collaborative infrastructure — from incubators like Portal Innovations to biomedical corridors in Bronzeville and the Illinois Medical District — empowers startups and established firms alike to bring new therapies and technologies to market faster. Backed by a growing network of investors and ad eep bench of scientific talent, Chicago is positioned as a national leader in biotech, medtech, and health innovation.
WHY CHICAGO?
Research Powerhouse: Anchored by institutions like Northwestern, UChicago, Argonne, Fermilab, and more.
Vibrant Startup Scene: Growing biotech hubs and incubators such as Fulton Labs, Matter and Portal Innovations support early-stage ventures.
Skilled Workforce: Nearly 100,000 life science professionals regionwide, rapidly growing.
Connected Network: Collaborations across academia, healthcare, pharma, and manufacturing.
BY THE NUMBERS
- 90,000+ professionals working in Chicagoland's life sciences sector, ranked #5 nationally
$45B+ Gross regional product, ranked #6 nationally
#6 U.S. metro for medical devices manufacturing
Chicago is advancing the future
of human health.
World Business Chicago connects global life sciences innovators with the research institutions, investors, and infrastructure that make our city a powerhouse for biotech and medical discovery.