BioWell, a nonprofit accelerator based in Houston, has officially assumed control of the Texas BioTechnology pilot facility in Richmond, Texas. The 33,000-square-foot plant is now the largest publicly accessible industrial biomanufacturing facility in the US, offering critical resources for scaling up biotechnological processes. With 13,000 liters of fermentation capacity, the facility provides contract development and manufacturing services, along with advanced laboratory spaces and bioprocessing equipment.
“Pilot facilities are critical for de-risking and scaling biotechnological processes”
Veronica Breckenridge, founder of BioWell and First Bight Ventures, commented on the strategic importance of the new partnership, noting that the facility offers an operational platform to support startups, research institutions, and industry leaders in biomanufacturing. Breckenridge stated, “Our involvement in this initiative comes at a pivotal moment. The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) recently published a comprehensive report emphasizing the urgent need for the United States to act decisively to maintain its leadership in biotechnology, particularly as China rapidly advances in this sector.”
US bioindustrial infrastructure gap
The US bioindustrial sector has struggled with limited access to pilot-scale facilities, often forcing companies to scale operations overseas, which can lead to intellectual property risks. Doug Cameron, PhD, an advisor to First Bight Ventures, explained, “Pilot facilities are critical for de-risking and scaling biotechnological processes. This gap in the US infrastructure has hindered innovation. The Texas Biotechnology facility helps address this need.”
The newly expanded facility also aims to foster workforce development, offering hands-on training for students and industry workers. The plant features dedicated workbenches for early-stage companies and is equipped with the necessary technology to advance both research and commercial production.
Economic impact on Houston’s biomanufacturing sector
Steven Kean, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership, touched on the broader economic potential, saying, “This facility will not only help scale up biomanufacturing but will also generate high-quality jobs and strengthen Houston’s position as a leader in this industry.”
The partnership enhances the ability of First Bight Ventures to assist portfolio companies with scaling production and attracting investment. Po Bronson, Managing Director of SOSV, further noted the synergy between biomanufacturing and the chemical industry, which is prominent in Houston. “Biomanufacturing doesn’t disrupt chemical manufacturing; it produces bio-based precursors that chemical manufacturers convert and formulate,” he said.
In an effort to introduce the facility to the public, BioWell will host two open houses on May 14 and May 28, offering tours of the lab and fermentation spaces. Interested parties can RSVP via BioWell’s website.
