Advancing Precision and Predictive Medicine: Delaware’s Role in Two EDA Designated Tech Hubs

Delaware’s strategic location and robust life sciences ecosystem play a pivotal role in two major tech hubs designated in 2023: the PROPEL Tech Hub in Philadelphia for precision medicine and the Baltimore Tech Hub for predictive medicine. Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (tech hubs), as designated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), signal a strong endorsement of a region’s plan to become a global leader in a critical technology ecosystem over the next decade. A key member of the Philadelphia PROPEL Tech Hub and adjacent to the Baltimore Tech Hub, Delaware features an innovative life sciences ecosystem as well as a fundamental commitment to building partnerships between industry, academia, and government. 

Delaware’s Involvement in the PROPEL Tech Hub 

The PROPEL Tech Hub, anchored in Philadelphia and organized by the Benjamin Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania, aims to accelerate the development and implementation of precision medicine solutions by leveraging robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), data processing, and other cutting-edge technologies. Delaware emerges as a key player in this initiative through the active involvement of leading tech entrepreneurs, incubators, and advocates, including the Delaware Innovation Space, the Tech Council of Delaware, the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL), Zipcode Wilmington, and more. 

Central components of the tech hub led wholly or in part by Delaware companies and institutions include workforce development, biomanufacturing, and entrepreneurship. These efforts highlight the strength of Delaware’s life sciences and biotech ecosystem. The Tech Council of Delaware, in partnership with Philadelphia Works, will continue initiatives in workforce development, aiming to expand regional biotech training programs to reach a diverse, skilled workforce. NIIMBL and the University of Delaware will spearhead the biomanufacturing component of the PROPEL Tech Hub, focusing on increasing the capacity of training programs, advancing technologies, and improving speed-to-market in the sector. For entrepreneurship, the Delaware Innovation Space and the Ben Franklin Technology Partners will accelerate the commercialization of new technologies and expand founder, corporate, and venture networks. 

Delaware’s Role in the Baltimore Tech Hub 

The Baltimore Tech Hub focuses on combining biotechnology with AI and ML to create predictive medicine solutions, aiming to transform healthcare by accelerating the commercialization of precision healthcare technologies. While Delaware is not officially a partner in the Baltimore Tech Hub, its proximity to Baltimore and wealth of innovation resources can support the hub’s entrepreneurship and commercialization efforts. Delaware offers access to capital, lab space, and mentorship programs, providing startups and entrepreneurs with valuable opportunities to develop and test innovative products. Additionally, Delaware’s highly skilled life sciences workforce offers a significant advantage for companies and institutions in the Baltimore Tech Hub, positioning them for success from the start. 

Leading the Way as a New U.S. Tech Hub

Delaware’s distinct contributions in the PROPEL Tech Hub in Philadelphia and its proximity to exciting developments in the Baltimore Tech Hubs underscores the state’s substantial biotechnology and life sciences ecosystem. By leveraging its strengths in workforce development, biomanufacturing, and entrepreneurship, Delaware not only enhances regional collaborations but also positions itself as a critical player in the future of healthcare innovation. This integrated approach promises to deliver groundbreaking solutions that improve health outcomes and drive economic growth, benefiting the entire region and beyond.