A Critical Analysis of the Local Biotechnology Industry Cluster In Alameda, Contra Costa, & Solano Counties

Study Executive Summary* The San Francisco Bay Area is considered to be the birthplace of the biotechnology industry. As the industry developed it expanded to other states and countries. Today, biotechnology is increasingly becoming an important economic development strategy around the world as regions and communities try to capture the economic benefits of this promising industry. With competition to incubate, retain, and attract biotech firms heating up, local economic development and workforce development officials need to understand the issues facing the industry and the factors affecting its continued growth. In June 2002, A Critical Analysis of the Local Biotechnology Industry Cluster In Alameda, Contra Costa, & Solano Counties was published by the Contra Costa Economic Partnership in cooperation with the Bay Area Bioscience Center, Economic Development Alliance for Business (EDAB), Solano Economic Development Corporation (SEDCORP), Alameda County Social Services Agency, Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services Department, Solano County Health & Social Services Department, and EASTBAY Works. This study examines the Biotechnology Industry cluster in Alameda, Contra Costa, and Solano Counties and its importance to local economies. Specifically, the study analyzes the structure of the biotechnology industry, its employment base, prospects for future growth, impediments to growth, and opportunities for sustaining the industry in the three-county region. The study also identifies job opportunities for local residents, the types of jobs available, workforce qualifications, and the availability of training and education programs. Industry trend data along with survey results and company interviews have been used to identify economic development and workforce development strategies that will help grow this vital industry in the coming years. You may access the Executive Summary here*. For the complete three-volume study, contact Linda Best at 925-957-2501. *The document is in .pdf format. To obtain the free Adobe Acrobat reader click below: