News Summary
Genentech has commenced construction on a $700 million biotech manufacturing plant in Holly Springs, North Carolina. This project is expected to create over 1,500 jobs and positively impact the local economy. The 700,000-square-foot facility will focus on developing medications for obesity and marks Genentech’s first East Coast production site in two decades. Local and state officials have approved substantial incentive packages to support this expansion. The facility is anticipated to further enhance Genentech’s position in the biotech sector and stimulate growth in the area.
Holly Springs, North Carolina – Genentech Breaks Ground on $700 Million Biotech Facility
In Holly Springs, North Carolina, Genentech has officially commenced construction on a major new biotech manufacturing plant, a project valued at approximately $700 million. This initiative is expected to result in the creation of over 1,500 jobs and significantly boost the local economy as part of a broader surge in the state’s life sciences industry.
Details of the New Facility
The new 700,000-square-foot facility will focus on the development of medications targeting obesity. It is the company’s first East Coast production site and marks its first new manufacturing facility globally in 20 years. Upon completion, the plant will employ approximately 420 high-paying jobs, with average annual wages projected to be around $120,000, well above the average private-sector wages in Wake County.
Construction is expected to generate around 1,500 jobs in the short term, primarily in the form of skilled labor and construction work. Once operational, the facility is projected to support the creation of additional jobs, totaling approximately 4,578 direct and indirect positions over the coming years. The facility will also bolster the development of Genentech’s obesity treatments, a key focus for the company’s future growth.
Economic Impact and Incentive Packages
State officials approved an incentive package valued at up to $13.1 million for Genentech, which includes roughly $9.8 million in job grants. Local incentives worth around $33.5 million are also pending decision. These financial incentives are projected to contribute approximately $3.1 billion to North Carolina’s economy over the 12-year incentives period.
The project’s economic contribution extends beyond direct employment; it is expected to help generate over 1,500 jobs during construction and is forecasted to foster additional indirect employment of about 1,078 jobs.
Local and Regional Economic Growth
The new biotech project is part of a series of high-value investments in Southern Wake County. Over the past decade, Wake County has announced 17 biotech projects, which collectively have resulted in roughly 3,700 jobs and infused around $5 billion in capital investment into the local economy.
Industry officials highlighted that the presence of university systems and technical colleges in the region is effectively training a skilled workforce ready for biotech manufacturing. This integrated talent pipeline is seen as a key advantage in attracting such investments.
Community and Workforce Development
Community leaders and local business owners have expressed optimism about the latest expansion. A local bakery owner praised the growth of the biotech sector as a boon for community engagement and family-friendly spaces. Additionally, Wake Tech plans to establish a new campus approximately four miles from the Genentech site to help provide a steady supply of trained workers for current and future biotech projects.
State-Level Recognition
North Carolina was recognized as the top state for doing business in 2025 by CNBC, reflecting the overall favorable climate for corporate investments and economic growth in the state. The biotech expansion in Holly Springs underscores this reputation, positioning North Carolina as a key hub for emerging and established life sciences companies.
Employment Growth Timeline
Employment at the new Genentech facility is expected to grow between 2028 and 2032, aligning with the company’s production timelines and market demands. This expansion is also anticipated to attract additional suppliers and service providers, further supporting regional economic development.
Overall, the groundbreaking marks a significant milestone for North Carolina’s biotech sector, promising to generate substantial economic benefits and job opportunities while reinforcing the state’s position as a leading location for life sciences investment nationwide.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Genentech Breaks Ground on New Biotech Facility in Holly Springs
North Carolina Bolsters Workforce Development Initiatives
Additional Resources
- ABC11: Holly Springs Boom
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Biotechnology
- Carolina Journal: Genentech Facility
- Google Search: Genentech Holly Springs Facility
- Fierce Pharma: Fujifilm Expansion
- WRAL: Genentech Breaks Ground
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
