Top 19 Biotechnology Companies in Virginia

Virginia's biotechnology sector thrives on innovation, focusing on improving health and agriculture. Companies engage in drug development, genomic research, and diagnostics, unveiling solutions for complex medical conditions while enhancing crop sustainability. The industry is demonstrating strong growth potential, fueled by investments in advanced technologies and increasing demand for personalized medicine. Interestingly, Virginia is home to vibrant incubators and skilled professionals driving collaboration between academia and industry, which further accelerates breakthroughs in biotechnology.

This list includes 19 biotechnology companies in Virginia, ranging from startups to established firms. Operating sizes vary, with many having between 11-50 employees, while others like BIO-CAT boast 51-200 personnel. Most were established since the 1990s, reflecting a strong foundation of innovation in the state. These companies specialize in sectors from personalized medicine and drug discovery to agricultural biotechnology, providing essential services and products to a global market.

Read on to explore notable biotechnology companies in Virginia.

Top 19 Biotechnology Companies in Virginia

1. HemoShear Therapeutics

• Website: hemoshear.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $3.5M, November 2023
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hemoshear-llc

HemoShear Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Charlottesville, Virginia, founded in 2008. The company specializes in drug discovery and development, particularly targeting rare diseases and metabolic disorders. Utilizing their proprietary REVEAL-Tx platform, HemoShear creates biologically relevant human disease models that help in identifying novel therapeutic candidates. Their primary clientele includes pharmaceutical companies seeking innovative solutions for significant unmet medical needs. HemoShear has formed strategic partnerships with major pharmaceutical firms, including Takeda and Horizon Therapeutics, to advance drug discovery programs. Recently, the company secured $3.5 million in funding in November 2023, underscoring its active engagement in the biotechnology field and its commitment to developing new therapies for patients with rare conditions.

2. BIO-CAT Enzymes & Microbials

• Website: bio-cat.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Troy, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bio-cat

BIO-CAT Enzymes & Microbials, founded in 1988 and based in Troy, Virginia, is a private biotechnology company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of enzymes, probiotics, and microbials. The company provides innovative solutions tailored for dietary supplements, food and beverage production, and animal nutrition. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, BIO-CAT serves a variety of clients, including life science companies and agricultural businesses, aiming to enhance health and efficiency through high-quality products. Their offerings include custom formulation, blending, and product development services, showcasing their commitment to meeting specific client needs. BIO-CAT also emphasizes quality assurance and regulatory support, ensuring that their products meet industry standards. Their proprietary products, such as OPTIZIOME® and OPTIBIOME®, reflect their focus on research and development in the field of biotechnology.

3. Biologics Consulting

• Website: biologicsconsulting.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: biologics-consulting-group

Biologics Consulting, founded in 1993 and based in Alexandria, Virginia, is a consulting firm that provides regulatory and product development services tailored for the biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices industries. With a team of experts, including former FDA officials, the company assists clients in navigating the intricate regulatory pathways necessary to bring safe and effective products to market. They have worked on over 4,700 projects and have successfully marketed products in more than 58 countries. Their services cover a range of areas, including biologics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biosimilars, making them a key player in the regulatory consulting space. Biologics Consulting prides itself on its collaborative approach, integrating seamlessly with client teams to enhance their product development processes. Their commitment to advancing patient care through regulatory success underscores their importance in the biotechnology sector.

4. Ceres Nanosciences, Inc.

• Website: ceresnano.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Manassas, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $5.0M, September 2022
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ceres-nanosciences-inc.

Ceres Nanosciences, Inc., founded in 2008 and based in Manassas, Virginia, is a biotechnology firm that focuses on diagnostic and research products. The company utilizes its proprietary Nanotrap® particle technology to capture, concentrate, and preserve low abundance analytes from biological samples. This innovative approach significantly enhances the detection capabilities for various diseases, making it a valuable resource for healthcare providers and research institutions. Ceres has developed a range of products, including the NEAT Liquid Biopsy Kit and Nanotrap Microbiome Particles, which are designed to improve diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. The company has received funding, with a notable investment of $5 million in September 2022, indicating ongoing support for its growth and development in the biotechnology field.

5. PBM Capital Group

• Website: pbmcap.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pbm-capital-group

PBM Capital Group, founded in 2010 and based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a private investment firm dedicated to the healthcare sector. The firm partners with scientists and entrepreneurs to develop innovative pharmaceutical products, providing both funding and operational management to its portfolio companies. PBM Capital focuses on companies within the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries, helping them navigate the complexities of bringing life-changing therapies to market. Since its inception, PBM Capital has been instrumental in creating significant shareholder value, with its portfolio companies achieving notable milestones, including successful initial public offerings. The firm’s approach combines extensive industry knowledge with strategic relationships, enabling it to support the growth of companies that address unmet medical needs.

6. AgroSpheres

• Website: agrospheres.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $12.0M, September 2024
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: agrospheres

AgroSpheres is an agricultural biotechnology company based in Charlottesville, Virginia, founded in 2016. The company focuses on creating sustainable crop protection and health solutions, utilizing innovative technologies such as biodegradable encapsulation and RNA interference to enhance crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. AgroSpheres has developed a patented AgriCell platform that allows for the effective delivery of biomolecules, promoting plant health and providing effective pest control. The company has secured significant funding, including a recent $37 million Series B round, which will support its product development and expansion efforts. AgroSpheres has also entered into a major commercial development agreement with FMC Corporation, further solidifying its position in the agricultural biotechnology market. Their mission is to transform agriculture through reliable, eco-friendly solutions that meet the growing demands of agricultural producers.

7. AMPEL BioSolutions

• Website: ampelbiosolutions.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $1.8M, July 2023
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ampelbiosolutionsllc

AMPEL BioSolutions, based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a biotechnology company founded in 2013. The firm specializes in personalized precision medicine and genomic analytics, focusing on the management of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Their product offerings include LuGENE, a blood test designed to predict flares and drug targets for lupus patients, and CovGENE, which assesses COVID-19 severity and treatment options. AMPEL's innovative approach leverages RNA analytics and predictive AI to enhance patient care and treatment outcomes. The company has established partnerships with healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies, further solidifying its role in the industry. In July 2023, AMPEL secured $1.8 million in funding, reflecting continued investor confidence in its mission and capabilities. Recognized as Virginia's Innovator-of-the-Year and ranked among top precision medicine companies by Nature, AMPEL BioSolutions is actively contributing to advancements in biotechnology.

8. Third Security, LLC

• Website: thirdsecurity.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Radford, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: third-security-llc

Third Security, LLC, founded in 1999 and based in Radford, Virginia, is an investment management firm that specializes in the biotechnology sector. The company manages a portfolio of operating biotechnology companies, providing them with capital access and strategic assistance to navigate the complexities of investment and development. With a team of experienced professionals, Third Security works closely with its portfolio companies to foster innovation and growth, utilizing biological solutions to address global challenges. Although Third Security has liquidated its historical venture capital funds, it continues to play a pivotal role in the biotechnology industry through its management of affiliated companies, including those involved in bioengineering and genetic technologies. The firm is led by R.J. Kirk, who has a rich history in the biotechnology field, having founded and managed several successful companies in the sector.

9. Capra Biosciences

• Website: caprabiosciences.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Manassas, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Convertible note, November 2024
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: capra-biosciences

Capra Biosciences, founded in 2020 and based in Manassas, Virginia, is a biotechnology company dedicated to sustainable chemical production. The company specializes in utilizing advanced bioreactor technology and biofilm processes to manufacture renewable chemicals, such as retinol, which is widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Capra's innovative approach focuses on converting waste into valuable materials, thereby promoting environmentally friendly manufacturing practices. Recently, they secured a $7.5 million award to demonstrate their platform for rapidly scaling the production of bio-derived small-molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This project underscores their commitment to enhancing U.S. biomanufacturing capabilities and addressing pharmaceutical ingredient shortages. With a small team of around 18 employees, Capra is positioned to make significant contributions to the biotechnology field, particularly in the area of sustainable chemical production.

10. Revivicor, Inc.

• Website: revivicor.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Blacksburg, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $7.6M, July 2011
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: revivicor-inc.

Revivicor, Inc., based in Blacksburg, Virginia, is a biotechnology company founded in 2003. It specializes in xenotransplantation, which involves the transplantation of organs from one species to another, specifically from genetically engineered pigs to humans. The company aims to alleviate the critical shortage of human organs for transplantation by providing a sustainable supply of genetically modified organs. Revivicor has developed the GalSafe™ pig, which has been engineered to reduce the risk of organ rejection in human recipients. This pig lineage has received FDA approval for use in food and potential therapeutic applications. Revivicor's advancements include successful clinical trials where their genetically engineered pig organs have been transplanted into human recipients, showcasing their commitment to addressing urgent medical needs. As a subsidiary of United Therapeutics Corporation, Revivicor is positioned at the forefront of innovative solutions in organ transplantation, making significant contributions to the biotechnology sector.

11. Solar Biotech

• Website: solarbiotech.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Norton, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Canada 14%
• Latest funding: September 2024
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: solar-bioprocessing-llc

Solar Biotech, Inc., founded in 2019 and based in Norton, Virginia, is a biotechnology company dedicated to sustainable biomanufacturing solutions within the synthetic biology sector. The company specializes in developing customized modular plant architectures, known as BioNodes, which are designed to optimize the production of various synthetic biology products. These products range from biodesigned cosmetics to functional food ingredients and bioelectronic components. Solar Biotech's operations are powered by solar energy and utilize recycled water, aiming for carbon-neutral and water-neutral production processes. With a team boasting over 100 years of combined experience in biotechnology and regulatory affairs, Solar Biotech is positioned to make significant contributions to the industry while addressing the growing demand for environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.

12. InBio

• Website: inbio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, United Kingdom (UK) 24%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: indoor-biotechnologies-limited

InBio, formally known as Indoor Biotechnologies, Inc., is a biotechnology company based in Charlottesville, Virginia. Founded in 1997, the firm specializes in allergen testing and analysis, offering a comprehensive range of products and services. These include purified allergens, testing kits, and environmental testing solutions aimed at assessing allergen exposure. Their clientele spans pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic laboratories, and consumers, highlighting their broad market reach. InBio is committed to quality and compliance, ensuring that their products meet rigorous standards. They also provide advanced testing services, such as their MARIA® technology, which allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple allergens. This innovative approach not only supports research but also aids in the development of safer consumer products. With a dedicated team and a focus on allergen-related challenges, InBio plays a vital role in enhancing health and safety through scientific expertise.

13. LumaCyte

• Website: lumacyte.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, September 2023
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lumacyte

LumaCyte, Inc. is a biotechnology firm based in Charlottesville, Virginia, founded in 2012. The company focuses on advanced research and bioanalytics instrumentation, specifically through its proprietary technology known as Laser Force Cytology™. This innovative approach enables label-free, real-time analysis of single cells, allowing researchers to measure subtle phenotypic changes and cellular responses without the need for antibody or genetic labeling. LumaCyte's flagship product, the Radiance® platform, serves a critical role in various applications, including vaccine development, gene therapy, and biomanufacturing. By providing real-time insights into cellular health and behavior, LumaCyte enhances the efficiency and quality of bioprocesses, making it a valuable partner for scientists and researchers in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.

14. Rivus Pharmaceuticals

• Website: rivuspharma.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $132.0M, September 2022
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rivus-pharmaceuticals

Rivus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Charlottesville, Virginia, founded in 2019. The company is dedicated to enhancing cardiometabolic health through the development of controlled metabolic accelerators (CMAs). These investigational medicines are designed to address conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart failure by leveraging mitochondrial uncoupling to promote fat-specific weight loss while preserving muscle mass. Rivus' lead candidate, HU6, has shown promising results in clinical trials, demonstrating improvements in key metabolic parameters and safety. The company has successfully raised $132 million in a Series B funding round in September 2022, which will support the advancement of their clinical programs and further development of their pipeline. Rivus is committed to transforming the treatment landscape for cardiometabolic diseases, making it a notable entity in the biotechnology industry.

15. Biovista

• Website: biovista.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: biovista

Biovista, founded in 1999 and based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a healthcare analytics company that focuses on drug repositioning and personalized medicine. The company utilizes advanced AI-driven platforms to assist biopharma and generics companies in streamlining their drug development processes. Their services include drug de-risking and strategies to manage clinical holds, which are essential for improving the safety and effectiveness of therapies. Biovista's technology platform, Project Prodigy, is designed to analyze extensive data resources, identifying non-obvious associations between compounds, molecular targets, and diseases. This capability allows them to find new uses for existing drugs and assess their risk profiles effectively. Biovista collaborates with various stakeholders, including biotech and pharma companies, generics firms, and patient advocacy groups, to advance therapies, particularly in challenging areas like neurodegenerative diseases and oncology. Their commitment to innovation and collaboration underscores their relevance in the biotechnology industry.

16. Venebio Group, LLC

• Website: venebio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: venebio-llc

Venebio Group, LLC, founded in 2008 and based in Richmond, Virginia, operates as a consulting firm focused on life sciences research. The company provides a range of services tailored to the needs of pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, and law firms. Their expertise includes epidemiology, biostatistics, and advanced analytics, which are essential for clients facing complex scientific and regulatory challenges. Venebio also develops clinical decision support tools, such as the Venebio Opioid Advisor and Venebio Statin Advisor, aimed at improving patient care and medication adherence. With a team of experienced scientists and a global network of consultants, Venebio is well-positioned to assist clients in drug and device development, health economics, and scientific litigation support. Their work not only aids in the development of new therapies but also enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare solutions.

17. Zephyr AI

• Website: zephyrai.bio
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Tysons, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: Series A, $111.0M, March 2024
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: zephyr-ai

Zephyr AI, founded in 2020 and based in Tysons, Virginia, is a healthcare technology firm that specializes in precision medicine and artificial intelligence solutions. The company has developed an AI-enabled platform designed to enhance patient outcomes through advanced patient stratification and drug response prediction. Their technology integrates clinical and molecular data to provide actionable insights for healthcare providers and pharmaceutical professionals. Zephyr AI's platform supports various stages of clinical development, from pre-clinical to late-stage trials, optimizing patient selection and trial design to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The company has attracted significant venture capital funding, with a Series A round raising $111 million in March 2024, underscoring its potential impact in the biotechnology sector. Zephyr AI's focus on transforming drug discovery and development processes positions it as a relevant player in the biotechnology industry.

18. Glen Research

• Website: glenresearch.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sterling, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2018
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: glen-research

Glen Research, founded in 1986 and based in Sterling, Virginia, is a biotechnology company that specializes in providing supplies and support for oligonucleotide synthesis. With a workforce of around 29 employees, the company focuses on delivering a comprehensive range of products, including DNA and RNA nucleosides, phosphoramidites, and purification reagents. Their offerings primarily serve businesses and organizations in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, emphasizing high-quality reagents essential for research and development in nucleic acid synthesis. Glen Research is part of Maravai LifeSciences, which enhances its standing in the industry and reflects its commitment to advancing biotechnological applications. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model that relies on its established market presence and expertise.

19. Tyton BioSciences

• Website: tytonbio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Danville, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tyton-bioenergy-systems

Tyton BioSciences, based in Danville, Virginia, is a private biotechnology firm founded in 2011. The company is dedicated to exploring the intersection of innovation and sustainability within the biosphere. TytonBio provides insights into advancements in biotechnology and renewable energy, catering to businesses and organizations that seek solutions to ecological challenges. Their work includes analyzing trends in biofuel production, CRISPR technology in agriculture, and the role of biotechnology in renewable energy. Through their blog and publications, they highlight the importance of sustainable practices and technological breakthroughs that promise to transform industries and address pressing environmental issues.

Biotechnology Insights: Key Companies in Virginia

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
HemoShear Therapeutics	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private Equity
BIO-CAT Enzymes & Microbials	Troy, Virginia, United States (USA)	51-200	1988	Private
Biologics Consulting	Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)	51-200	1993	Private
Ceres Nanosciences, Inc.	Manassas, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private Equity
PBM Capital Group	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2010	Private
AgroSpheres	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2016	Venture Capital
AMPEL BioSolutions	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Venture Capital
Third Security, LLC	Radford, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Private
Capra Biosciences	Manassas, Virginia, United States (USA)	1-10	2020	Venture Capital
Revivicor, Inc.	Blacksburg, Virginia, United States (USA)	1-10	2003	Corporate
Solar Biotech	Norton, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2019	Corporate
InBio	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	1997	Private
LumaCyte	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2012	Corporate
Rivus Pharmaceuticals	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2019	Venture Capital
Biovista	Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Private
Venebio Group, LLC	Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private
Zephyr AI	Tysons, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2020	Venture Capital
Glen Research	Sterling, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	1986	Corporate
Tyton BioSciences	Danville, Virginia, United States (USA)	11-50	2011	Private

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