Pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Minnesota engage in the creation and distribution of medicines and therapies. These organizations range from established giants to innovative startups focusing on niche markets such as biotechnology and drug delivery systems. The sector includes firms producing both generic and branded medications, while recent trends emphasize sustainability and advanced technology integration. As healthcare needs evolve, Minnesota's pharmaceutical industry is adapting through research and development, aiming to address complex health challenges. Insights indicate a growing demand for personalized medicine and biologics, which could lead manufacturers to expand their capabilities further into research and partnerships.

The companies featured here reflect a spectrum of sizes and specializations, spanning from established names like Upsher-Smith with 501-1000 employees to smaller firms like Venipharm. These organizations, primarily based in metropolitan areas, were founded from as early as 1919 and most recently in 2019. Specializing in drug delivery, veterinary pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology, each company contributes distinctively to advancing healthcare solutions in various sectors addressing both human and animal health needs.

Continue reading to discover the notable pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Minnesota.

Top 20 Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Companies in Minnesota

1. Upsher-Smith

• Website: upsher-smith.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Maple Grove, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: January 2024
• Founded year: 1919
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: upsher-smith-laboratories

Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC, based in Maple Grove, Minnesota, is a pharmaceutical company with a rich history dating back to 1919. Founded by pharmacist F.A. Upsher Smith, the company initially focused on refining digitalis, a cardiac drug. Today, Upsher-Smith manufactures both brand and generic medications, with a strong emphasis on treatments for migraine headaches and seizure disorders. The company prides itself on delivering high-quality pharmaceuticals and maintaining strong relationships with healthcare providers and patients. Upsher-Smith operates a modern manufacturing facility known as Plant C, which is one of the largest and newest generics plants in the United States. This facility supports their commitment to providing reliable and effective medications. The company has also been recognized with numerous industry awards, reflecting its dedication to quality and service in the pharmaceutical sector.

2. Kindeva Drug Delivery

• Website: kindevadd.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Woodbury, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 66%, United Kingdom (UK) 34%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $42.0M, August 2023
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kindeva

Kindeva Drug Delivery, founded in 2020 and based in Woodbury, Minnesota, is a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that specializes in drug-device combination products. The company offers a wide range of services, including aseptic injectable fill-finish, analytical support, and regulatory compliance assistance. Kindeva has a strong emphasis on sustainability, working to innovate greener products and reduce environmental impact. With approximately 1,283 employees and facilities in both the United States and the United Kingdom, Kindeva is well-positioned to support pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in accelerating product development. The company has a rich history of innovation, having pioneered several drug delivery technologies since 1956, and continues to push the boundaries of drug-device integration. Recently, Kindeva secured funding of over $41 million, reflecting its commitment to growth and advancement in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

3. Laboratoire XO

• Website: laboratoirexo.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: St. Cloud, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: October 2022
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: laboratoire-x.o

Laboratoire XO, also known as LXO Group, is a pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturer based in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Founded in 2015, the company specializes in essential medications and medical devices, with a focus on therapeutic areas such as cardiology, central nervous system disorders, and internal medicine. LXO Group operates in over 80 countries, ensuring access to high-quality treatments for healthcare providers and patients alike. The company has made significant strides in its growth strategy, completing 20 acquisitions since its founding, which has helped to expand its product portfolio to include 28 brands and 26 products. LXO is committed to maintaining high standards of quality, ethics, and transparency in its operations, with a production focus that prioritizes European manufacturing. Their recent acquisition of the prescription medication Nimotop® from Bayer further solidifies their position in the market and reflects their strategy of integrating established products to enhance their offerings. With a reported revenue exceeding 90 million euros, Laboratoire XO is positioned as a significant player in the pharmaceutical industry.

4. Tapemark

• Website: tapemark.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: West Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2022
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tapemark

Tapemark, founded in 1952 and based in West Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a pharmaceutical company that specializes in drug delivery systems. The company offers a range of services, including the development of transdermal patches, oral films, and unit dose semi-solid drug delivery systems. Tapemark collaborates closely with pharmaceutical companies, providing formulation and analytical services that help bring innovative drug administration solutions to market. Their proprietary platforms, such as IontoPatch™ and MacroPerm™, showcase their commitment to advancing drug delivery technologies. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Tapemark operates entirely within the United States, emphasizing its focus on quality and regulatory compliance in the pharmaceutical industry.

5. LXO Group (Laboratoire X.O)

• Website: lxogroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: St. Cloud, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: France 93%, United States (USA) 7%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: laboratoire-x.o

LXO Group (Laboratoire X.O) is a private pharmaceutical company based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, with a significant operational presence in France. Founded in 2015, the company focuses on the development and distribution of essential medications and medical devices. LXO Group operates primarily in the healthcare sector, catering to the needs of healthcare providers and patients. The company emphasizes quality, ethics, and transparency in its operations, aiming to enhance patient care through its pharmaceutical offerings. With a portfolio that includes 18 brands and 26 products, LXO Group has expanded its reach to over 80 countries. The company has also made 20 acquisitions since its inception, showcasing its growth strategy and commitment to maintaining a robust product lineup. LXO Group is certified in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and is dedicated to producing a significant portion of its products in Europe, reinforcing its commitment to quality and local production.

6. Humanetics Corporation

• Website: humaneticscorp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $5.0M, December 2024
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: humanetics-corporation

Humanetics Corporation, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a private pharmaceutical company founded in 1988. The company specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative treatments aimed at enhancing human health, particularly in the areas of oncology and radiation exposure. Their primary product, BIO 300, is a novel drug that aims to improve outcomes for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy and serves as a medical countermeasure against radiation injuries. Humanetics has established a strong pipeline, with multiple clinical trials underway, including studies related to non-small cell lung cancer and COVID-19. The company has received significant funding, totaling over $60 million, from various federal agencies, including the Department of Defense and the National Cancer Institute, to support their research and development initiatives. This funding highlights their commitment to addressing urgent health needs and their active role in the pharmaceutical industry.

7. Rebiotix Inc (a Ferring Company)

• Website: rebiotix.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Roseville, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: April 2018
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rebiotix

Rebiotix Inc., a Ferring Company, is a biotechnology firm based in Roseville, Minnesota, founded in 2011. The company is dedicated to developing microbiome-based therapeutics, with a primary focus on innovative treatments for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections. Their approach utilizes fecal transplant therapies to restore gut health and prevent infection recurrence, addressing a significant medical need. Rebiotix operates within the pharmaceutical sector, leveraging its integration into Ferring Pharmaceuticals to enhance its research and development capabilities. The company aims to provide effective solutions for healthcare providers and patients, contributing to advancements in microbiome research and therapeutic applications. With a small team of around 71 employees, Rebiotix is agile and focused on making a meaningful impact in the field of microbiome therapeutics.

8. Veterinary Pharmaceutical Solutions

• Website: veterinarypharmaceuticalsolutions.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Saint Peter, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: veterinary-pharmaceutical-solutions

Veterinary Pharmaceutical Solutions (VPS), based in Saint Peter, Minnesota, has been a trusted name in veterinary pharmaceuticals since its inception in 1995. The company specializes in compounded medications tailored specifically for livestock, addressing the unique health needs of this sector. VPS collaborates closely with veterinarians and livestock producers to develop effective pharmaceutical solutions, ensuring that their products meet the rigorous demands of animal care. Their product range includes water-soluble amoxicillin, meloxicam, and various injectable formulations, all designed to enhance the health and well-being of livestock. VPS prides itself on its innovative approach, employing a team of pharmacists, technicians, and veterinarians dedicated to research and development. This focus on quality and customer service has allowed VPS to establish a strong presence in the veterinary pharmaceutical market, treating over 2 billion pigs and continuously expanding its product offerings to meet evolving industry needs.

9. Nanocopoeia

• Website: nanocopoeia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $500,000, September 2006
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: nanocopoeia

Nanocopoeia is a privately held specialty research company based in St. Paul, Minnesota, founded in 2001. The company emerged from a technology license with the University of Minnesota, initially focusing on medical devices and advanced nano-scale coating processes. Over the years, Nanocopoeia has shifted its focus to pharmaceutical development, specifically addressing high-value challenges related to drug solubility and bioavailability. They offer innovative drug formulation services that enhance the performance of low solubility drugs, thereby improving patient safety and compliance. With a small but technically skilled team, Nanocopoeia has made significant strides in developing macro-particles for oral-solid drug formulations. Their proprietary atomization technology, known as ElectronanoSpray, allows for the creation of homogeneous drug formulation particles with high surface area and uniformity. This technology is crucial for pharmaceutical companies looking to improve drug delivery and effectiveness. The company has also received funding, which has supported its growth and development efforts in the pharmaceutical sector.

10. Venipharm

• Website: venipharm.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: St. Cloud, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: France 78%, Germany 22%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: venipharm

Venipharm, founded in 1999 and based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, is a private pharmaceutical company that specializes in generics. With a small team of around 18 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the pharmaceutical landscape by developing and licensing generic dossiers. Venipharm provides essential regulatory services and collaborates with manufacturing partners to facilitate the registration and distribution of pharmaceutical products in France and the broader European market. Their expertise spans from market evaluation to marketing authorization, ensuring that clients can navigate the complexities of the pharmaceutical industry effectively. Venipharm has established a reputation for its customer-oriented approach and has successfully managed over 300 marketing authorizations across various molecules. The company is particularly well-positioned to assist clients with lifecycle management, ensuring long-term competitiveness in the generics market.

11. R&D Systems

• Website: rndsystems.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, India 9%, China 7%, Other 7%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: r%26d-systems

R&D Systems, founded in 1985 and based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a biotechnology company that specializes in creating high-quality research reagents and tools for the life sciences sector. With a workforce of over 600 employees, the company focuses on providing a wide array of products, including recombinant proteins, antibodies, and custom services tailored for researchers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academic institutions. Their commitment to quality is evident in their stringent manufacturing processes, which ensure that their products meet high standards of bioactivity and purity. R&D Systems plays a vital role in supporting scientific advancements across various fields, including cancer research, immunology, and cell therapy. Their offerings are essential for researchers aiming to develop new therapies and understand complex biological processes. As part of the Bio-Techne family, R&D Systems continues to innovate and expand its product line, contributing significantly to the life sciences industry.

12. Aurora Pharmaceutical Inc

• Website: aurorapharmaceutical.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Northfield, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Canada 2%
• Latest funding: $2.4M, May 2015
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: aurora-pharmaceutical

Aurora Pharmaceutical Inc, founded in 2009 and based in Northfield, Minnesota, is a private company dedicated to veterinary pharmaceuticals. With a workforce of approximately 80 employees, the company focuses on manufacturing a wide array of products aimed at improving the health and well-being of livestock and pets. Their product line includes medications for pain management, wound care, and overall health management, catering primarily to veterinarians and animal health professionals. Aurora operates a state-of-the-art facility that adheres to stringent quality control standards, ensuring that their products meet both U.S. and EU guidelines. The company has also engaged in funding activities, securing $2,412,000 in funding as of May 2015, which indicates a level of investor interest in their operations and growth potential. Aurora's commitment to innovation and quality positions it as a notable player in the veterinary pharmaceutical sector.

13. Cytotheryx, Inc.

• Website: cytotheryx.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rochester, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cytotheryx

Cytotheryx, Inc., founded in 2019 and based in Rochester, Minnesota, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to addressing the critical need for high-quality primary human hepatocytes. These liver cells are essential for advancing treatments for liver diseases, which affect millions of individuals. The company specializes in innovative solutions such as bioartificial livers and hepatocyte transplantation therapies. Their platform technology allows for the scalable production of clinically safe, reliable, and consistent primary human hepatocytes, which can be utilized in various applications, including drug metabolism studies, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. Cytotheryx collaborates with notable institutions like the Mayo Clinic, enhancing their credibility and reach within the healthcare sector. Their focus on liver disease treatment positions them as a significant player in the biotechnology field, contributing to the development of new therapies and improving patient care.

14. Nu-Tek BioSciences

• Website: nu-tekbiosciences.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minnetonka, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: nutek-bioscience

Nu-Tek BioSciences, founded in 2009 and based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to the manufacture of animal-free peptones and cell culture media tailored for pharmaceutical applications. The company operates the only completely animal-free peptone manufacturing facility in the United States, which positions it uniquely in the market. Nu-Tek's products are designed to mitigate contamination risks and enhance supply chain resilience, making them particularly valuable for pharmaceutical manufacturers and supply houses. Their offerings include a range of plant-based peptones derived from soy, pea, wheat, and rice, as well as yeast extracts. These products support various applications, including advanced cell cultures and industrial fermentation processes. Nu-Tek's commitment to animal-free manufacturing not only aligns with growing industry trends towards sustainability but also provides regulatory advantages for their clients. The company actively engages with pharmaceutical partners to develop custom solutions that meet specific project needs, showcasing their adaptability and customer-centric approach.

15. Evergen (Formerly Collagen Solutions)

• Website: collagensolutions.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Eden Prairie, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 58%, United Kingdom (UK) 36%, New Zealand 6%
• Latest funding: October 2024
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: collagen-solutions-plc

Evergen, formerly known as Collagen Solutions, is a biotechnology firm based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Founded in 2014, the company specializes in the production of engineered medical-grade collagen and tissue-based products tailored for medical devices. Evergen collaborates closely with medical device manufacturers to develop custom formulations, providing essential contract manufacturing services. Their products are utilized in various healthcare applications, including orthopedics, dental, and wound care. The company operates under stringent quality standards, maintaining certifications such as GMP and ISO13485, which are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of their biomaterials. With a workforce of approximately 88 employees, Evergen has established a global presence, with operations extending to the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Their commitment to quality and innovation in biomaterials positions them as a significant player in the medical device sector, contributing to advancements in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

16. Birchwood Laboratories LLC

• Website: birchwoodlaboratories.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Eden Prairie, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: birchwood-laboratories-llc

Birchwood Laboratories LLC, based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, is a private manufacturing company that specializes in the production and distribution of healthcare products, metal finishing systems, and contract manufacturing services. Founded in 1948 as Fuller Pharmaceutical Company, the company has undergone several transformations, including a name change in 1979. Birchwood operates through three main divisions: Birchwood Medical, Birchwood Technologies, and Birchwood Contract Manufacturing. Their product range includes items such as AER Witch Hazel Medicated Pads, Scopettes Applicators, and B-Sure Incontinence Care Products. The company is committed to meeting regulatory standards, as evidenced by its FDA and EPA registrations and adherence to cGMP practices. Birchwood Laboratories continues to serve various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, by providing essential healthcare solutions and manufacturing services.

17. Express Diagnostics International, Inc.

• Website: drugcheck.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Blue Earth, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: express-diagnostics-international-inc.

Express Diagnostics International, Inc., also known as CareHealth America Corp., was founded in 2004 and is based in Blue Earth, Minnesota. The company is a private entity that manufactures and distributes drug testing devices under the DrugCheck® brand. Their product lineup includes urine and saliva drug tests, alcohol testing solutions, and fentanyl harm reduction products. Express Diagnostics serves a variety of clients, including healthcare organizations and law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the importance of reliable drug testing for compliance and safety. The company operates a 30,000-square foot facility that adheres to FDA regulations and is certified under ISO 13485:2016, ensuring high-quality manufacturing standards. Express Diagnostics has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in the U.S. on three occasions, highlighting its growth trajectory in the medical device sector.

18. Vaxxinova US

• Website: vaxxinova.us.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Willmar, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: epitopix

Vaxxinova US, founded in 2002 and based in Willmar, Minnesota, is a private company dedicated to the development and production of veterinary vaccines. With a workforce of approximately 90 employees, Vaxxinova focuses on enhancing livestock health through innovative vaccine solutions. They cater to veterinarians and livestock producers, providing products that prevent diseases in poultry, cattle, and swine. The company employs proprietary technologies, including their patented Siderophore Receptors and Porins (SRP) technology, which is designed to induce immunity against specific bacterial pathogens. Vaxxinova also offers custom-made vaccines tailored to the needs of individual herds, ensuring that their solutions are relevant to the specific challenges faced by livestock producers. Their commitment to research and development in veterinary biologics underscores their role in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, particularly in the area of animal health.

19. Rion

• Website: riontx.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Rochester, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, $1,000, June 2017
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rion-health

Rion, founded in 2017 and based in Rochester, Minnesota, is a clinical-stage regenerative medicine company that focuses on exosome technology for tissue regeneration. Emerging from the Mayo Clinic Employee Entrepreneurial Program, Rion has developed a unique product known as Purified Exosome Product (PEP™), which is derived from platelets. This innovative product aims to enhance healing and recovery in patients by utilizing the regenerative properties of exosomes. Rion's proprietary manufacturing process allows for the mass production of PEP™, addressing scalability challenges in the industry. The company is actively involved in research and development, exploring various therapeutic applications for PEP™ across multiple tissue types, including skin, heart, and muscle. Rion's approach to regenerative medicine positions it as a noteworthy player in the pharmaceutical manufacturing landscape, particularly in the field of advanced therapies.

20. Biolyph

• Website: biolyph.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chaska, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: biolyph

Biolyph, founded in 1993 and based in Chaska, Minnesota, is a biotechnology firm that specializes in innovative lyophilization services tailored for the life science and medical device industries. The company focuses on converting unstable proteins, antibodies, enzymes, and other reagents into stable LyoSpheres, which are microliter aliquots designed for easy rehydration and use in various applications. Biolyph's expertise extends to excipient formulation, cycle development, and specialized packaging, ensuring that their products meet the stringent quality requirements of in vitro diagnostics and research reagent manufacturers. Their operations are guided by a commitment to quality, modeled after FDA and ISO standards, which supports clients producing regulated products. Biolyph has demonstrated its capability by processing and packaging hundreds of millions of LyoSpheres, showcasing their relevance in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in Minnesota

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