Lilly Gateway Labs selects companies for residency based on scientific potential and top-tier talent. They are seeking early-stage biotechs with interesting scientific achievements and a collaborative mindset."
In the sunny California life science cluster of San Diego, a glass building with the prominent sign 'Lilly' catches the eye. Last September, Eli Lilly, well-known for obesity treatment 'Mauzaro' and Alzheimer's treatment 'Kisunra', opened the global innovation hub 'San Diego Lilly Gateway Labs'. Ten companies are currently researching next-generation blockbuster therapies here.
The San Diego Labs house a total of 18 research labs that can be adjusted in size and facilities according to the companies' needs. Resident companies not only benefit from Lilly's scientific advice but also have access to discounted clinical research organization (CRO) services and key research materials within the cluster.
Established in 2019, Lilly set up the Gateway Labs to foster research in collaboration with global big pharma companies and open innovation in biotech. They have systematized ecosystem support platforms like venture capital (VC), expert research and development (R&D) advice, and artificial intelligence (AI) platforms.
Currently, Lilly Gateway Labs are located in seven cities worldwide, including San Francisco, Boston, Philadelphia, Beijing, and Shanghai. Resident companies receive office and research facilities, as well as technical mentoring from Lilly's senior researchers and investment education. The core focus is on promoting growth by combining Lilly's 150 years of experience with innovative biotech technologies.
Berena Stoker, Vice President of Lilly Gateway Labs, explained, "We used to partner with companies that had drug candidates in clinical trials, but we realized we were missing out on early-stage nonclinical companies, so we created a systematic support program." She added, "Over the past six years, 400 companies have resided in the Gateway Labs, attracting $3 billion in investments and developing over 150 new drugs."
Stoker emphasized scientific capabilities as the top criterion for companies entering the Gateway Labs. She stated, "Mutual progress is possible when there are scientific data and drug technologies available," stressing that anyone can apply for support regardless of therapeutic approach or indication.
In July next year, the Gateway Labs will open at Samsung Biologics' Second Bio Campus in Incheon's Yeonsu District. As Lilly's third open innovation hub after the U.S. and China, 30 companies will reside in a state-of-the-art facility spanning 12,000 square meters. By combining Lilly's expertise in science and therapy with Samsung Bio's contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) network, rapid growth is expected. Companies will be recruited starting in April next year.
Stoker noted, "We have taken notice of the research achievements in Korean biotech confirmed by major international academic journals and the Korean government's firm investment commitment to the bio ecosystem." She added, "Through collaboration with Samsung Bio, we will support the rapid transition of Korean early-stage biotechs' research achievements into development stages and establish a foundation for growth in both domestic and international innovative ecosystems.