Lilly To Drive Drug Innovation With New $4.5 Billion Medicine Foundry

Eli Lilly and Company revealed plans for a $4.5 billion investment to establish the Lilly Medicine Foundry, a cutting-edge centre dedicated to both advanced manufacturing and drug development. This groundbreaking facility, the first to integrate research and manufacturing under one roof, will enable Lilly to explore innovative approaches to medicine production and increase manufacturing capacity for clinical trials. Located in Indiana’s LEAP Research and Innovation District in Lebanon, Indiana, the new Foundry brings the company’s total investment in the region to over $13 billion.

The Lilly Medicine Foundry will enhance the company’s ability to develop cutting-edge solutions aimed at optimizing production processes, boosting capacity for clinical trial medications, and reducing both costs and environmental impact. With its adaptable design, the facility will accommodate the production of diverse molecular therapies, including small molecules, biologics, and nucleic acid-based treatments. Innovations from the Foundry will be integrated into Lilly's broader manufacturing network for large-scale production. Strategically located in Indiana's LEAP District, the site will facilitate collaboration with Lilly Research Laboratories in Indianapolis and manufacturing teams in Lebanon.

The State of Indiana is backing the project with infrastructure upgrades, covering roads, water supply, electricity, and other utilities. Economic incentives tied to Lilly’s investment and job creation targets will also be provided by the state. Once fully operational, the Medicine Foundry is expected to create 400 full-time positions for skilled professionals, including engineers, scientists, lab technicians, and operations personnel.

David A. Ricks, Lilly's chair and CEO said in a statement, "As we accelerate our work to discover new medicines for the toughest diseases, we're continuing to invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure to support our growing pipeline. In addition to supplying high-quality medicine for our clinical studies, this new complex will further strengthen our process development and scale up our manufacturing capabilities to speed delivery of next-generation medicines to patients around the world.”

Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb stated, “Lilly's continued investment in Indiana solidifies our state's role as a hub for cutting-edge science and technology. For nearly 150 years, Lilly has been committed to growing its roots and reach in Indiana, cultivating local talent, and driving scientific advancements that benefit patients around the world. I couldn't be more excited about the opportunities Lilly's Medicine Foundry will bring to communities throughout our great state." 

"Lilly's increased investment in Indiana is creating tremendous new career opportunities for Hoosiers. The LEAP district in Lebanon is quickly becoming an international destination, with $18 billion in committed capital investment on 2,300 acres since its launch in 2022. LEAP and the Hardtech Corridor are attracting global leaders, talent and innovation to Indiana,” commented Indiana Secretary of Commerce David Rosenberg.