Life sciences Advancing innovation and improving lives in South Carolina
South Carolina’s life sciences industry is growing rapidly across biotechnology, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, research and advanced manufacturing.
Life sciences built for innovation and long-term growth
Companies operating in SC benefit from a highly skilled workforce, leading research institutions, expanding healthcare networks and a collaborative business environment supporting innovation from development through production. Continued investment across the state is strengthening South Carolina’s position as a destination for advanced life sciences operations and long-term industry growth.
From precision medical devices and pharmaceutical manufacturing to biosciences research and laboratory operations, life sciences companies are building technologies and products that improve health outcomes and support global healthcare systems.
Supported by strong industry partnerships, research capabilities and workforce development initiatives, South Carolina continues to expand its role in the future of life sciences innovation.
Life sciences is driving growth in South Carolina
Download the life sciences industry snapshot
Leading life sciences companies in South Carolina
A collaborative life sciences ecosystem
South Carolina’s life sciences industry is supported by a collaborative ecosystem that connects research, healthcare, advanced manufacturing and business growth.
Strong industry partnerships
Across SC, companies have access to strong industry partnerships, expanding research capabilities and a growing network of organizations focused on accelerating innovation and commercialization. Higher education institutions, healthcare systems and workforce development partners continue helping companies strengthen operations across biotechnology, medical devices, diagnostics and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Industry advocacy
Organizations like SCBio further support the industry through advocacy, networking and business development initiatives that help connect companies with talent, research opportunities and long-term growth resources statewide.
Built for innovation
Combined with a competitive business environment and continued investment across the sector, South Carolina is building a strong foundation for the future of life sciences innovation.
A workforce built for life sciences
South Carolina’s life sciences industry is supported by a highly skilled workforce with expertise spanning research, advanced manufacturing, laboratory operations and healthcare innovation.
A business environment designed to support life sciences growth
South Carolina’s business environment supports continued growth across biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics and advanced life sciences manufacturing.
Performance-based incentives reward companies for job creation and capital investment, helping life sciences operations launch, expand and scale in SC. Combined with a competitive tax structure and strong support for research, innovation and advanced manufacturing, the state continues attracting investment across the life sciences industry.
These advantages help companies support long-term growth, innovation and operational expansion across the life sciences sector.
- No state property tax
- No inventory tax or wholesale tax
- No local income tax
- A competitive corporate income tax structure
- Performance-based incentives supporting job creation and investment
Job tax credit
A statutory tax credit available to qualifying new and expanding companies that create and maintain net new full-time jobs in South Carolina. Credit value varies based on the number of jobs created and the county where they are located.
Research & development equipment sales tax exemption
To support innovation in SC, machinery and equipment purchased for R&D may be eligible for a state and local sales tax exemption.
5-year property tax abatement
Qualifying manufacturers, research and development facilities, distribution facilities and corporate headquarters operations may receive a five-year exemption from county operating property taxes on eligible investments.
Built here. Grown here. Thriving here.
“South Carolina is a great place to work — and be, and live.”
Melanie McLane, Director of Human Resources at Arthrex Manufacturing
Obatala Sciences selects Charleston County for first East Coast operation
$656,000 investment will create 46 new jobs and training opportunities
AmbioPharm expands Aiken County operations
$118.96 million investment will create 202 new jobsCharles River Laboratories expands Charleston County operations
Company investing $13 million in microbial solutions facilityInterested in life sciences in South Carolina?
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Explore opportunities in SC
Connect with our Business Development team to discuss your company’s plans and learn more about South Carolina’s life sciences opportunities.
