Emerging life science hubs beyond traditional centers.
Life science startups are increasingly finding opportunities outside traditional hubs like Boston and San Francisco. Regions such as San Diego, New York City, and Raleigh-Durham are emerging as significant life sciences hubs.
North Carolina’s Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) is highlighted as a nationally competitive R&D life sciences hub, with venture funding reaching a record $1.6 billion in 2025, according to Life Science Leader.
Marcel Frenkel, founder of Ten63 Therapeutics, serves as an example of an entrepreneur who successfully secured capital and talent in North Carolina, attracting over $45 million in funding. Investors are recognizing that great investment opportunities and company building are possible wherever talent, equipment, and facilities are available, not just in traditional hubs, Frenkel said.
According to the Life Science Leader article, three key factors contribute to the growth of regional hubs: strong, experienced leadership teams; intentional network development and ecosystem stakeholder alignment; and the power of syndication. Strong leadership, supported by programs like Executive in Residence (EIR) and mature local venture capital firms, helps retain and attract top talent.
Intentional network development, through support networks, investor conferences like Triangle Venture Day, and accelerator/incubator programs, connects startups with investors and resources. The power of syndication allows local investors with national connections to help startups attract additional funding by bringing in other firms for funding rounds.
The growth of these regional hubs is a positive trend for the industry, creating more opportunities for startups and investors by leveraging local strengths such as people, infrastructure, and a collaborative culture, the Life Science Leader article states.
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