When Kyowa Kirin, a Japan-based global specialty pharmaceutical company focused on therapies for rare diseases, decided to locate their first North American production facility in Sanford in June of 2024, they committed to more than just expansion; they committed to engagement. As one of the company’s senior North American executives put it, “We’re excited to collaborate with area colleges, universities, businesses, and civic leaders to ensure that our plans align with Sanford’s vision for growth, anchored in a rejuvenated manufacturing economy that offers diverse job opportunities and returns value to the community at large.”
Currently, the company operates from the historic Capital Bank building in Downtown Sanford while construction continues at the manufacturing site on Hawkins Avenue. With a $530 million investment, the project is expected to create more than 100 well-paying jobs.
Expected to begin operations in early 2027, this state-of-the-art facility is designed as reference point within the biopharma ecosystem, featuring walking trails, a central courtyard and amphitheater, outdoor work areas, and abundant natural lighting that emphasize employee well-being and collaboration.
And even as they build their facility in Helix Innovation Park at the Brickyard, Kyowa Kirin is already making good on their promise to deepen their roots in Sanford and Lee County through meaningful investments in education and workforce development.
Through a partnership with Central Carolina Community College, the company is helping establish a Kyowa Kirin Innovation Hub at the E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center to support hands-on, industry-aligned training for future biomanufacturing professionals.
Kyowa Kirin is a Founder-level sponsor of the new Lee County Library, supporting its Makerspace and expanded learning resources for residents of all ages.
And Kyowa Kirin remains an engaged SAGA member, contributing its efforts to strengthen the business community it now calls home.
SAGA is excited to celebrate Kyowa Kirin’s dramatic progress thus far, both the development of its facilities and in the ties it continues to build within our community. We look forward to a long and prosperous future together.