It is easy to see why Glenn Robertelli is bullish on Rhode Island life sciences. In 2023, the sector employed more than 6,000 Rhode Islanders who on an average earned $109,460 annually – 72% higher than the state average. And jobs and wages have only grown since, says the RI Bio executive director. But for the sector to keep growing, state leaders need to come together on “bold, business-friendly policies that encourage investment and innovation,” he said.
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but its impact on the life sciences sector is anything but small. We consistently outperform larger states – leading in federal research funding, driving breakthrough innovation and fueling economic and workforce growth across the Ocean State.
According to the 2024 BIO U.S. Bioscience Economy Report, Rhode Island ranks No. 4 in per capita National Institutes of Health funding, demonstrating not only our ability to attract federal dollars but also our deep commitment to scientific excellence. We’re also No. 9 in bioscience patents per million residents, highlighting a vibrant entrepreneurial culture that values discovery and practical solutions.
This innovation delivers tangible results. The Providence–Warwick metropolitan area ranks No. 10 nationally in medical device and equipment-manufacturing employment, while the state is recognized as a “concentrated state” in pharmaceutical manufacturing – poised for continued growth as national priorities emphasize onshoring.
Life sciences are a powerful economic engine. In 2023, the sector employed 6,051 Rhode Islanders with an average annual wage of $109,460 – 72% higher than the state average.
Over the past two years, jobs increased by 5% and wages rose nearly 15% , creating high-skill careers that strengthen families and communities. These figures likely understate the sector’s full impact, as many Rhode Islanders work in life sciences roles just over the border, bringing their earnings, spending and tax contributions back to the state.
Collaboration is key to this success. Our momentum stems from strong partnerships among industry, government and nonprofits. New initiatives [such as] the R.I. Life Science Hub and Ocean State Labs are poised to accelerate growth, providing vital infrastructure and support for startups and entrepreneurs – the potential brand-name life sciences leaders of tomorrow.
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, Rhode Islanders must continue working in unison to sustain this growth.
To accelerate our momentum, we need bold, business-friendly policies that encourage investment and innovation. Countries [such as] Singapore show that smart tax incentives, long-term education investment and efficient governance drive lasting competitiveness.
Just as Newport emerged in 1639 as a center of ideas and global commerce, Rhode Island must lead again – this time through innovation. This calls for reevaluating incorporation fees and minimum annual income taxes that may discourage new businesses. And we need genuine partnerships with industry to identify, simplify and streamline state requirements that discourage growth – for the benefit of all Rhode Islanders.
Our greatest strength is our people, and workforce development is central to Rhode Island’s future. Strategic investments and innovation in K–12 education, combined with partnerships with institutions [such as] Brown University, Bryant University, Salve Regina University, Rhode Island College, and Community College of Rhode Island, build strong foundations in biology, chemistry, computer science and pharmacy. Training providers such as RI Bio, New England Medical Innovation Center, CCRI and New England Institute of Technology are working to ensure biomanufacturing, lab skills and entrepreneurship opportunities are accessible statewide.
Expanding these training programs – including certificates, internships, co-ops and public-private partnerships – must remain a top priority.
Industry feedback consistently highlights that hands-on experience is crucial to complement classroom learning. Rhode Island must create meaningful opportunities for students, career changers and the businesses that rely on their talent. Introducing a statewide internship program, alongside exploring payroll tax exemptions for validated experiential-learning initiatives, could drive broader participation and strengthen investment in workforce development.
Rhode Island’s life sciences sector spans the full spectrum – from manufacturing to high-tech research and product design.
Leading manufacturers [such as] Amgen Rhode Island, ZOLL Medical Corp. and Organogenesis Holdings Inc. drive advanced biomanufacturing and medical-device production in the state, supporting both U.S. and global markets. Meanwhile, companies such as EpiVax Therapeutics Inc. and Nabsys Inc. specialize in computational biology and genomic technologies, pioneering innovations in vaccine development and DNA analysis.
Cutting-edge clinical and preclinical research is conducted at organizations, including Bolden Therapeutics Inc. – developing first-in-class neurogenesis therapies – MindImmune Therapeutics, Brown University and Women & Infants Hospital. These institutions anchor Rhode Island’s reputation in neuroscience, immunology and patient-centered care.
The sector’s vitality is not limited to scientists and lab researchers. A thriving ecosystem depends equally on marketers, analysts, technicians, accountants, logistics professionals and countless others – all essential for delivering lifesaving innovations to patients. In Rhode Island, everyone has a role to play in building this dynamic community, and every Rhode Islander’s participation is vital as the ecosystem continues to grow and evolve.
Our leadership in life sciences reflects a deeper commitment to the health of our people, economy and future. By embracing innovation, expanding opportunity and deepening partnerships, Rhode Island can ensure that this small state continues to make a big impact.
Now is the time to engage – building a stronger, healthier future for every Rhode Islander. Our long-term health and well-being depend on the right inputs and efforts, so let’s focus our collective energy on driving meaningful change together.
(Glenn Robertelli is executive director of life sciences trade organization RI Bio.)
