In the heart of California, the Greater Sacramento area is emerging as a leading hub for Sacramento life science innovation and agri-food technology. Central to this transformation is the University of California, Davis, driving advancements in both Sacramento life science and Davis agri-food tech.
A Leading Hub for Life Sciences
Sacramento life science is emerging as a leading player by a surge in both new ventures and expansions of established companies. The region’s appeal is rooted in its strategic location, affordable operational costs, and a high quality of life, which together create an ideal environment for scientific and technological advancements. UC Davis, renowned for its research, is a critical driver of Sacramento life science growth, producing skilled professionals and groundbreaking research.
A landmark development is Aggie Square on the UC Davis Sacramento campus. Scheduled for completion by mid-2026, this innovation center will feature advanced facilities for life sciences and biotechnology, including a lifelong learning complex and student housing. Aggie Square will offer amenities such as community rooms and private office suites, designed to foster biotech collaboration and innovation.
Expanding Biotech Infrastructure in Greater Sacramento
The Greater Sacramento area is seeing significant expansions in biotech facilities and infrastructure. ThermoGenesis, a leader in cell processing technologies, is opening a 36,000-square-foot facility in Rancho Cordova. Known as ReadyStart CleanRooms, this lab will cater to the growing cell and gene therapy market, reinforcing Sacramento life science’s role in the industry.
BioSpace at The Bridge District in West Sacramento is another prime example. This 1.4 million square-foot life science campus underscores Greater Sacramento’s commitment to expanding biotech infrastructure. The facility is set to support cutting-edge biotechnology research and development.
GeminiBio is expanding its operations with a new 32,000-square-foot cGMP manufacturing facility in West Sacramento. This facility will boost GeminiBio’s capabilities in the cell and gene therapy market, highlighting Sacramento’s growing prominence in the biotech sector.
The Woodland Research and Technology Park further cements Sacramento life science as a key player in life sciences, agri-food tech, and environmental technology. Spanning 350 acres, this park will provide over 2 million square feet of office and lab space, supporting the region’s growth in high-tech industries.
More Players in Sacramento’s Biotech Sector
Greater Sacramento is becoming a hub for major biotech companies. Ginkgo Bioworks has acquired a facility in West Sacramento. This acquisition will enhance Ginkgo’s work in synthetic biology, solidifying Sacramento’s role in the global biotech industry.
Penumbra, a medical device manufacturer, is expanding its operations in Roseville. This expansion reflects the increasing importance of Greater Sacramento in the medical device sector and demonstrates the region’s ability to attract and support major industry players.
Orca Bio and Nivagen Pharmaceuticals are other examples of Sacramento’s growing biotech footprint. Orca Bio’s new 95,000 square-foot facility in Sacramento focuses on precision cell therapies, while Nivagen’s expansion into a 64,000 square-foot cGMP facility supports generic pharmaceutical drugs.
Turtle Tree, a company specializing in cell-based milk production, is scaling up with a 24,000 square-foot lease in West Sacramento. This venture highlights Greater Sacramento’s role in pioneering sustainable food technologies and addressing global food challenges.
Institutional Support and Collaborative Efforts
The success of Greater Sacramento’s life sciences and agri-food technology sectors is supported by local institutions and collaborative initiatives. Seed Central, a public-private partnership, connects UC Davis with the agri-food tech industry, facilitating research and accelerating practical applications. This partnership exemplifies Sacramento’s collaborative spirit and commitment to fostering innovation.
The HM.CLAUSE Life Science Innovation Center in Sacramento supports life sciences research with its advanced lab spaces and greenhouse areas, reinforcing the region’s leadership in agri-food innovation.
Lab@AgStart, located in Northern California, offers 13,000 square feet of shared lab space, including a commercial kitchen for food product development. This resource supports startups and established companies in the agri-food tech sector, reflecting Sacramento’s comprehensive approach to supporting food technology innovation.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Life Sciences and Agri-Food Technology in Greater Sacramento
With strategic investments and UC Davis’s cutting-edge research, the Sacramento life science market is positioned as a leading force in life sciences and agri-food technology. As the region continues to attract global attention and investment, it is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these industries.
Greater Sacramento’s rich agricultural heritage, strong research institutions, and growing network of innovative companies ensure its place at the forefront of biotechnology and sustainable food production.
In summary, Greater Sacramento and UC Davis are not just participants but leaders in life sciences and agri-food technology. Through strategic developments and collaborative efforts, the region is setting new standards for innovation and growth. As it continues to attract global attention, Sacramento life science is poised to address future challenges and seize opportunities in biotechnology and sustainable food production.
This article was researched and written by Carson Pearce.
