Apozeal Pharmaceuticals to Create 70 Jobs with $4.1M PA Investment
Governor Shapiro Announces Major Investment in Pennsylvania's Life Sciences Industry
Levittown, PA – A significant boost is on the horizon for Pennsylvania's life sciences sector as Apozeal Pharmaceuticals Inc., a Bucks County-based drug manufacturer, is set to expand its operations in Levittown. This expansion, supported by a $4.1 million investment, aims to create at least 70 new jobs while retaining 22 existing positions.
The expansion project is backed by a $1.1 million state investment from the Shapiro Administration, as part of its broader initiative to bolster economic growth and job creation across Pennsylvania. Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the state's leadership in biotech and life sciences, stating, “Apozeal’s continued growth in our Commonwealth strengthens this legacy while creating more opportunity for Pennsylvanians.”
Apozeal, which currently produces four FDA-approved Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) products, plans to add new production lines at its 70,000-square-foot, FDA-registered facility. This will enable the company to manufacture its remaining seven ANDA products along with additional over-the-counter items.
Support for Apozeal’s expansion comes through a proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), including a $925,000 loan from the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority, a $150,000 Pennsylvania First Grant, and a $100,000 WEDnet grant for workforce training.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger highlighted the importance of life sciences as a key sector in the state's Economic Development Strategy, noting that Apozeal's investment exemplifies the growth being fostered across Pennsylvania.
Apozeal Pharmaceuticals, originally part of Biopharm Inc., aims to produce all of its FDA-approved products within the United States. Sadath Shareef, Chairman and CEO of Apozeal, expressed gratitude for the state's support, saying, “Their support was instrumental in helping bring this project to life.”
Life Sciences: A Pillar of Pennsylvania's Economic Development
Pennsylvania's life sciences sector remains a formidable force, employing over 100,000 individuals across nearly 3,100 companies and prestigious research institutions. Over the past five years, the state has seen more than 10,700 new life sciences patents, ranking fourth in the nation.
With projections indicating the creation of over 6,500 new jobs in the sector over the next decade, the focus remains on research and development. This initiative aligns with Governor Shapiro’s commitment to enhancing economic growth through strategic investments and partnerships.
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has secured more than $25.6 billion in private sector investments, creating over 12,400 jobs. His administration continues to focus on fostering innovation and economic development through various initiatives, including a proposed $50 million investment to spur innovation statewide, with a $30 million initiative specifically for life sciences jobs.
For more information on Governor Shapiro’s economic initiatives and budget proposals, visit shapirobudget.pa.gov.