In a landmark move for the American biotechnology landscape, Genentech has officially broken ground on a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Holly Springs, North Carolina. This $700 million investment represents the company’s very first production site on the U.S. East Coast, a strategic expansion designed to pioneer the next generation of medicines. Consequently, this new hub will be at the forefront of tackling some of today’s most pressing health challenges, specifically developing cutting-edge treatments for obesity and complex metabolic disorders. The project is a cornerstone of a much larger vision, forming a key part of a massive $50 billion U.S. investment strategy by Genentech’s parent company, Roche, underscoring a deep commitment to fostering innovation and driving the future of biomanufacturing.

For decades, Genentech has been synonymous with the West Coast’s biotech boom, with its headquarters famously located in South San Francisco. Therefore, the decision to build in North Carolina marks a significant geographical and strategic pivot. By establishing a major presence on the East Coast, the company is not only expanding its manufacturing footprint but also tapping into the rich talent pool and thriving life sciences ecosystem of the Research Triangle region. This move is about more than just adding capacity; it’s a calculated step to enhance the company’s agility and resilience.

Ultimately, this East Coast anchor will play a crucial role in ensuring that Genentech’s breakthrough therapies can be developed, produced, and delivered to patients more efficiently than ever before. Yet another facility similar to this that was recently approved for construction is the BioMADE Biomanufacturing Facility in Maple Grove. The project is funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Further, it will serve as a national model for scaling biotechnology innovations.

The primary mission of the Holly Springs facility is both clear and critical: to produce novel therapies aimed at a global health epidemic. With rates of obesity and related metabolic conditions like diabetes continuing to rise, the need for more effective treatments has never been greater. This new site will be instrumental in manufacturing complex biologic medicines that represent a significant leap forward from traditional pharmaceuticals. By focusing on these next-generation treatments, Genentech is not just building a factory; it is creating a dedicated arsenal in the fight against chronic disease. As a result, the work done within these walls will have a direct and profound impact on the lives of millions, offering new hope and improved health outcomes.

Beyond the headline numbers, the Holly Springs project has a few fascinating details. For instance, the site, specifically chosen from over 90 potential locations, highlights the town’s appeal and readiness for such a large-scale investment. Built on a 100-acre plot in the Oakview Innovation Park will create approximately 500 to 600 permanent, high-paying jobs. This will be a major economic boost for the local community.  Furthermore, one of the key drug candidates expected to be produced here is CT-388, a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist that has shown remarkable results in clinical trials. This includes significant weight loss and improvements in blood sugar levels for patients with type 2 diabetes. This positions the facility at the absolute cutting edge of metabolic medicine.

Project Overview

Investment: $700 million project, Genentech’s first East Coast manufacturing site

Scale: A 700,000-square-foot facility on a 100-acre lot

Focus: Produces next-generation metabolic and obesity treatments

Jobs during Construction: Over 1,500 construction jobs during development

Jobs during Manufacturing: More than 400 high-wage manufacturing roles once operational

Groundbreaking Date: Officially broke ground on August 25, 2025

Strategic Tier: Located in Holly Springs, growing biotech hub near Raleigh-Durham

Incentives: NC granted a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) and local incentives

Operational Target: Full operations expected by 2029–2030