Illinois boasts a vibrant cluster of biopharmaceutical companies focused on innovative therapies and drug development. These firms range from startups to established enterprises that engage in various facets, including biotechnology, oncology, and precision medicine. The industry is increasingly moving towards personalized treatments, with a greater emphasis on addressing specific patient needs. Researchers use advanced technologies such as biologics, machine learning, and regenerative medicine to tackle challenges in healthcare. As patient demands and global health scenarios evolve, the biopharmaceutical sector in Illinois remains poised for growth, contributing significantly to not only local but also global health initiatives.

The companies in this list reflect a mix of sizes and expertise, from small startups to privately-held firms, all headquartered in Illinois. Established between 1919 and 2022, these 22 companies specialize in fields ranging from cancer treatment to regenerative medicine. Their workforce sizes vary, with some employing as few as 10 and others supporting hundreds of professionals. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and scientific research, these companies showcase a strong commitment to developing impactful healthcare solutions.

Read on to discover key biopharmaceutical companies based in Illinois.

Top 22 Biopharmaceutical Companies Companies in Illinois

1. Sparx Biopharmaceutical CORP

• Website: sparxbio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mount Prospect, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 71%, China 29%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: sparx-therapeutics

Sparx Biopharmaceutical CORP, based in Mount Prospect, Illinois, is a private biopharmaceutical company founded in 2018. The firm specializes in the development of innovative antibody therapies and immuno-oncology agents, aiming to strengthen human immunity. Sparx employs advanced research techniques, including machine learning and big data analytics, to identify potential therapeutic targets. Their pipeline features several candidates, such as SPX-303, which is currently in the IND-enabling phase, and SPX-101, which is progressing towards clinical trials. The company has built in-house capabilities for cGMP biologics production, allowing them to manage the entire drug development process from discovery to manufacturing. With a team of experienced professionals from major pharmaceutical backgrounds, Sparx is positioned to make significant contributions to cancer treatment and immunotherapy.

2. Paragon Biosciences

• Website: paragonbiosci.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $185.0M, November 2022
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: paragon-biosciences-llc

Paragon Biosciences, founded in 2010 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to creating, building, and funding innovative biology-based companies. The company focuses on developing treatments for a range of medical conditions, particularly in the life sciences sector. Paragon's approach involves identifying significant unmet medical needs and leveraging its expertise in clinical development, regulatory affairs, and commercialization to launch new ventures. Their portfolio includes companies like Emalex Biosciences, which is advancing treatments for central nervous system disorders, and Harmony Biosciences, known for its work on sleep-wake disorders. In November 2022, Paragon secured $185 million in funding, underscoring its active role in the biopharmaceutical industry and its commitment to fostering scientific breakthroughs.

3. Evozyne

• Website: evozyne.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $81.0M, September 2023
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: evozyne

Evozyne is a biotechnology firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2020. The company specializes in the development of novel protein systems aimed at solving critical health challenges. Their primary focus is on creating high-performance therapeutic proteins and gene editing technologies. Evozyne collaborates with pharmaceutical companies to enhance drug development processes, leveraging generative AI and evolutionary principles to design adaptive proteins. Their product pipeline includes therapeutics such as IgG proteases, which modulate immune responses, and a portfolio of high-performance CRISPR gene editors. Recently, Evozyne secured $81 million in Series B funding, underscoring their potential for growth and innovation in the biopharmaceutical sector. The company is committed to addressing long-standing therapeutic challenges and aims to deliver life-changing treatments for patients.

4. Vanqua Bio

• Website: vanquabio.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $45.0M, July 2024
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: vanqua-bio

Vanqua Bio, established in 2019 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing next-generation medicines for neurodegenerative diseases. The company is particularly focused on conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Vanqua Bio employs a unique drug development strategy that leverages insights into neuronal cell pathways and advanced screening techniques. Their lead program targets glucocerebrosidase (GCase), aiming to address the underlying mechanisms of Parkinson's disease and related disorders. The company has also made notable progress in clinical trials, with their candidate VQ-101 showing promise as a treatment for GBA-Parkinson's disease. With a team of experienced scientists and a commitment to transforming patient care, Vanqua Bio is positioned to make a significant impact in the biopharmaceutical industry. The company has recently secured funding of approximately $44.98 million, reflecting strong investor interest in their innovative approach to drug development.

5. Meitheal Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

• Website: meithealpharma.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $35.0M, August 2023
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: meitheal-pharmaceuticals-inc.

Meitheal Pharmaceuticals, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2017. The company is dedicated to developing and commercializing affordable medications, which include generics, biologics, and fertility treatments. Meitheal aims to enhance access to essential medicines through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. Their product offerings reflect a commitment to addressing unmet medical needs, with a focus on affordability and accessibility. Recently, Meitheal announced the acquisition of YUSIMRY®, marking their entry into the biosimilars market. This move highlights their ambition to expand their portfolio and contribute to the evolving biopharmaceutical landscape. The company has also received substantial funding, with a recent debt financing round of $35 million in August 2023, which supports their ongoing development efforts and operational growth.

6. Xentria, Inc.

• Website: xentria.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $25.0M, October 2022
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: xentria-inc

Xentria, Inc., founded in 2020 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a biotechnology company dedicated to innovative drug development and strategic partnerships within the life sciences sector. The company specializes in creating therapeutics for rare diseases, with a particular emphasis on pulmonary sarcoidosis. Xentria's services extend to clinical trial management and regulatory guidance, aimed at addressing significant gaps in healthcare. Their lead candidate, XTMAB-16, is currently undergoing clinical trials and has received Orphan Drug Designation from both the FDA and the European Medicines Agency. This designation highlights the potential of XTMAB-16 to fill a critical treatment void in sarcoidosis, a condition that currently lacks approved therapies specifically targeting its underlying causes. With a small but dedicated team, Xentria is actively engaged in advancing drug development projects that require collaboration and innovative approaches to meet the needs of patients suffering from rare diseases.

7. Cour Pharmaceuticals Development Co., Inc.

• Website: courpharma.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Skokie, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, $105.0M, January 2024
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cour-pharmaceutical-development-company-inc.

Cour Pharmaceuticals Development Co., Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Skokie, Illinois, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to creating first-in-class therapies for autoimmune diseases. The company is pioneering a nanoparticle platform designed to reprogram the immune system, aiming to achieve antigen-specific tolerance rather than merely suppressing immune responses. Their pipeline includes investigational therapies for conditions such as Myasthenia Gravis, Primary Biliary Cholangitis, Type 1 Diabetes, and Celiac Disease. Notably, their lead product for celiac disease, developed in partnership with Takeda, has shown promising results in clinical trials, marking a significant milestone in the treatment of autoimmune disorders. Cour Pharmaceuticals has recently raised $105 million in Series A funding, underscoring its potential and the interest it has garnered within the biopharmaceutical sector.

8. TerSera Therapeutics

• Website: tersera.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Deerfield, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Canada 11%
• Latest funding: March 2016
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tersera

TerSera Therapeutics LLC, founded in 2016 and based in Deerfield, Illinois, is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics aimed at unmet medical needs. The company primarily focuses on oncology and non-opioid pain management, areas that are crucial in today's healthcare environment. TerSera not only develops specialized medications but also provides comprehensive patient support services, ensuring that healthcare providers and patients can navigate treatment effectively. Their approach combines clinical expertise with a patient-first mentality, striving to deliver therapeutics that can significantly impact patients' lives. With a workforce of approximately 200 employees, TerSera operates mainly in the United States and Canada, reflecting a commitment to addressing healthcare challenges in North America.

9. ARCH Venture Partners

• Website: archventure.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Ireland 3%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: arch-venture-partners

ARCH Venture Partners, founded in 1986 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private venture capital firm focused on biotechnology investments. With a team of experienced professionals, ARCH provides not only funding but also strategic support to early-stage biotech companies. Their portfolio includes a range of innovative firms working on groundbreaking medical solutions, from gene therapies to advanced diagnostics. ARCH is known for its deep involvement in the companies it backs, often acting as a partner rather than just an investor. This commitment to fostering innovation in the life sciences sector has made ARCH a key player in the biopharmaceutical industry, helping to catalyze discoveries that prevent, detect, and cure diseases.

10. Medexus Pharmaceuticals

• Website: medexuspharma.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, Canada 50%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: medexuspharma

Medexus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a pharmaceutical company based in Chicago, Illinois, with a strong operational presence in Canada. Established in 2012, Medexus specializes in innovative specialty products aimed at addressing unmet medical needs. The company offers a range of prescription and over-the-counter medications that target various diseases, including allergy, dermatology, hematology, oncology, and rheumatology, with a particular emphasis on rare conditions. Medexus operates through two segments: Medexus Pharma Canada and Medexus Pharma USA, allowing them to effectively serve healthcare professionals and patients across North America. Their product portfolio includes notable offerings such as Rasuvo, IXINITY, and Gleolan, which are designed to enhance patient care and improve health outcomes. Medexus has built a robust commercial platform, leveraging its integrated infrastructure to support product development and market access. The company is committed to continuous growth through organic expansion and strategic partnerships, positioning itself as a relevant player in the biopharmaceutical industry.

11. Capstone Development Services Co, LLC

• Website: capstonedevservices.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rosemont, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, India 3%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: capstone-development-services-co-llc

Capstone Development Services Co, LLC, founded in 2013 and based in Rosemont, Illinois, is a healthcare company that specializes in the development of complex generic pharmaceuticals and medical devices. The company operates as a shared services organization, partnering with global pharmaceutical and medical device companies to streamline the product development process. Capstone's expertise lies in regulatory services and technical project management, which allows their clients to expand their product portfolios efficiently. They have successfully navigated the regulatory landscape, achieving approvals for more than 20 products in key markets such as the United States, European Union, and Canada. Their approach not only supports the growth of their partners but also helps in managing costs associated with research and development. Capstone's team includes experienced professionals with backgrounds in science, regulatory affairs, and clinical operations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to product development.

12. Pathos

• Website: pathos.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series C, $62.0M, October 2024
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pathos-ai

Pathos is a biotechnology company based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2022. The company specializes in drug development and precision medicine, with a strong emphasis on oncology. Pathos leverages advanced artificial intelligence technologies to enhance patient selection and improve the efficacy of clinical-stage therapeutics. Their proprietary PathOS Platform™ utilizes extensive real-world oncology data and patient-derived functional genomic data to identify and validate biological insights that traditional methods might overlook. Pathos actively partners with biopharmaceutical companies to revitalize shelved programs and accelerate the development of effective cancer treatments. Recently, they completed a Series C funding round, raising $62 million, which underscores their potential and the interest from investors in their innovative approach to drug development.

13. Pinnacle Biologics, Inc.

• Website: pinnaclebiologics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bannockburn, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $1.5M, December 2011
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pinnacle-biologics-inc-

Pinnacle Biologics, Inc., founded in 2007 and based in Bannockburn, Illinois, is a specialty pharmaceutical company dedicated to enhancing critical therapies for patients facing serious health challenges. The company specializes in revitalizing older pharmaceutical brands while also supporting the development of newer therapies. Their primary focus is on providing effective treatment options for healthcare professionals and patients, particularly in the areas of oncology and rare diseases. Pinnacle Biologics operates with a fully integrated approach, combining marketing support, a dedicated sales force, and a well-credentialed management team to ensure that vital medicines reach those in need. With a small team of around 26 employees, they maintain a strong commitment to compliance and ethical standards in their operations, ensuring that they meet the needs of both patients and healthcare providers.

14. SynChem, Inc.

• Website: synchem.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Elk Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, India 25%
• Latest funding: June 2024
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: synchem-inc.

SynChem, Inc., founded in 1997 and based in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, is a contract research organization that specializes in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry. The company provides high-quality research and development services tailored to the needs of pharmaceutical and biotech companies. Their expertise lies in the development of unnatural amino acids and inhibitors, which are essential for advancing drug discovery efforts. Operating under cGMP conditions since 2011, SynChem ensures that its processes meet stringent quality standards. The company has a notable history of collaboration with various clients, including significant contributions to the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other innovative therapeutic solutions. SynChem has also been recognized for its quality work, receiving the Eli Lilly & Company Supplier Award in 2002. Recently, SynChem was acquired by Formosa Laboratories, further expanding its capabilities and reach in the biopharmaceutical industry.

15. Ihma

• Website: ihma.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Schaumburg, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 82%, Switzerland 16%, India 3%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ihma-inc

International Health Management Associates (IHMA) is a biotechnology firm based in Schaumburg, Illinois, founded in 1992. The company specializes in antimicrobial drug development, providing a comprehensive suite of services that includes drug discovery, clinical microbiology, and regulatory support. IHMA assists pharmaceutical companies and organizations in navigating the complexities of developing effective antimicrobial therapies, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Their capabilities extend across all phases of anti-infective therapy development, from pre-clinical studies to commercialization. IHMA also engages in antimicrobial resistance surveillance and offers specialized laboratory services, making them a critical resource in the fight against infectious diseases. With a global presence, including operations in Switzerland and India, IHMA is positioned to support clients worldwide in their antimicrobial development efforts.

16. Experimur, A Frontage Company

• Website: experimur.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: experimur

Experimur, A Frontage Company, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private laboratory services provider founded in 2000. With a team of approximately 32 employees, the company focuses on delivering a comprehensive suite of drug development and testing services tailored for pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms. Their offerings include drug discovery, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK), safety assessment, and clinical trial support. Experimur plays a crucial role in assisting clients through the intricate processes of bringing new drugs to market, emphasizing scientific research and adherence to regulatory standards. Their expertise in various testing services, including bioanalytical and toxicology assessments, positions them as a significant player in the biopharmaceutical industry, supporting the development of innovative therapies.

17. Emalex Biosciences

• Website: emalexbiosciences.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Canada 8%
• Latest funding: Series D, $250.0M, November 2022
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: emalex-biosciences

Emalex Biosciences, founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to developing innovative treatments for central nervous system disorders. The company is particularly focused on Tourette syndrome and childhood-onset fluency disorder, conditions that currently have limited treatment options. Emalex is advancing its investigational drug, ecopipam, which is a first-in-class dopamine-1 receptor antagonist. This drug is undergoing late-stage clinical trials, aiming to provide effective relief for patients suffering from Tourette syndrome. The company has garnered substantial financial backing, with a recent Series D funding round raising $250 million, underscoring its potential in the biopharmaceutical sector. Emalex is committed to improving patient outcomes through scientific breakthroughs and is actively involved in clinical research to bring new therapies to market.

18. Dimension Inx

• Website: dimensioninx.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $75,000, February 2025
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dimension-inx

Dimension Inx, founded in 2017 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a biomedical company dedicated to designing and developing therapeutic products aimed at restoring tissue and organ function. The company specializes in creating innovative biomaterials that provide a three-dimensional blueprint for cell behavior, essential for effective tissue regeneration. Their interdisciplinary team possesses expertise in materials science, biomedical engineering, and advanced manufacturing, allowing them to quickly iterate on multifunctional therapeutic products. Dimension Inx actively collaborates with healthcare providers and organizations to address complex materials challenges in regenerative medicine. Their internal product pipeline targets various therapeutic applications, including bone regeneration and soft tissue restoration, showcasing their commitment to advancing the field. Recently, they secured a grant of $75,000 in February 2025, further supporting their innovative endeavors.

19. Pfanstiehl, Inc.

• Website: pfanstiehl.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Waukegan, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, China 5%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: December 2000
• Founded year: 1919
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pfanstiehl-inc-

Pfanstiehl, Inc., based in Waukegan, Illinois, has been a notable player in the biopharmaceutical industry since its founding in 1919. The company specializes in manufacturing high-purity injectable grade excipients, which are crucial for the stability and efficacy of therapeutic proteins and vaccines. Pfanstiehl offers a range of solutions, including biologic stabilization, protein aggregation reduction, and custom API manufacturing. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards, ensuring that their products meet stringent safety and purity requirements. With a workforce of approximately 105 employees, Pfanstiehl serves a global clientele, with a significant portion of its operations based in the United States. The company’s expertise in custom chemistry solutions and biologic stabilization makes it a valuable partner for pharmaceutical companies looking to enhance the quality and reliability of their products.

20. SmartHealth Catalyzer, Inc.

• Website: smarthealthcatalyzer.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Riverwoods, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: smarthealthcatalyzer

SmartHealth Catalyzer, Inc. is a biomedical venture studio based in Riverwoods, Illinois, founded in 2019. The company specializes in building startups that are centered around promising biomedical research emerging from Midwest universities and research hospitals. Their services include venture creation, commercialization of therapeutics, diagnostics, and medical devices, as well as support in intellectual property protection and technology transfer. SmartHealth Catalyzer collaborates with elite bioentrepreneurs and biotech experts, each possessing over 30 years of industry experience. They focus on addressing significant health issues by accelerating the development of innovative solutions. Their portfolio includes companies like Saros Therapeutics, which develops cancer treatments, and Covira Surgical, which aims to improve infection control in surgical settings. By connecting research institutions with investors, SmartHealth Catalyzer plays a vital role in the biopharmaceutical ecosystem, helping to translate scientific discoveries into viable medical products.

21. Hematogenix

• Website: hematogenix.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Tinley Park, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 34%, United Kingdom (UK) 33%, Malaysia 30%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hematogenix

Hematogenix is a private laboratory services company based in Tinley Park, Illinois, founded in 2007. With a workforce of approximately 165 employees, the company specializes in cancer diagnostics and treatment. Hematogenix offers advanced testing and pathology services to pharmaceutical and biotech firms, as well as oncologists, ensuring high-quality data and support for clinical trials. Their expertise spans various areas, including hematopathology, solid tumor pathology, minimal residual disease monitoring, and companion diagnostics. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality, holding multiple certifications such as CAP accreditation and CLIA certification. Hematogenix operates globally, with facilities in North America, Europe, China, and Asia-Pacific, and is involved in numerous clinical trials, providing critical data that aids in the development of novel cancer therapies.

22. Espee Group - Empowering Healthcare

• Website: espeeusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Schaumburg, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 87%, United States (USA) 13%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: espee-biopharma-%26-finechem-llc

Espee Group - Empowering Healthcare, founded in 1985 and based in Schaumburg, Illinois, is a private company that specializes in pharmaceutical distribution and research support. The firm provides a range of services including research and development, bioequivalence studies, and clinical trials support. They cater to a variety of clients, such as pharmaceutical manufacturers, contract research organizations (CROs), and government entities. With a commitment to compliance and quality, Espee Group operates on a global scale, ensuring reliable supply chains and effective project management. Their extensive network allows them to source pharmaceutical formulations from around the world, facilitating advancements in medical research and drug development.

Biopharmaceutical Companies Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

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