Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) has selected Goochland County, Virginia, as the site for a monumental $5 billion advanced manufacturing operation. This new plant, situated just west of Richmond, will be the company’s first fully integrated facility dedicated to producing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and finished drug products for its pioneering bioconjugate platform and monoclonal antibody portfolio.
The investment is a major component of Lilly’s previously announced strategy to significantly expand its U.S. manufacturing footprint. It represents the first of four new planned American sites and is a key part of the company’s $50 billion in domestic capital commitments made since 2020.
A primary focus of the Virginia location will be to increase domestic production capacity for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), a sophisticated class of targeted cancer therapies. ADCs are designed to combine the precision targeting of monoclonal antibodies with potent cell-killing agents, aiming to deliver powerful treatment directly to cancerous cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
“Our investment in Virginia underscores our commitment to U.S. innovation and manufacturing – creating high-quality jobs, strengthening communities and advancing the health and well-being of Americans nationwide,” said David A. Ricks, Lilly chair and CEO. “By expanding our domestic capacity, we’re building a secure, resilient supply chain that delivers for patients today and supports the breakthrough medicines of tomorrow.”
The project is projected to create more than 650 new permanent, high-wage jobs in fields such as engineering, science, and technical operations. The construction phase alone is expected to generate 1,800 jobs, providing a substantial boost to the local economy. An economic impact study anticipates that for every dollar Lilly invests, up to four dollars will be generated in regional economic activity, with each manufacturing job supporting several additional positions in supporting industries.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin welcomed the decision, stating, “Lilly is one of the world’s great innovators, and I want to thank them for this significant commitment to Virginia. This new facility in Goochland County will create 650 great jobs, along with 1,800 construction jobs, and deliver some of the most advanced medicines in Lilly’s portfolio, powered by the unmatched talent of our Virginia workforce.
By expanding manufacturing capacity here in the United States, we are strengthening our economy, securing America’s critical pharmaceutical supply chain, and positioning Virginia to lead in the industries that will drive innovation for generations to come.”
The facility will leverage state-of-the-art technologies including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and comprehensive automation to ensure precision manufacturing and a reliable supply of medicines. Lilly also plans to establish strong community ties through partnerships with local universities and support for educational initiatives to build a sustainable talent pipeline.
Executive Vice President and President of Lilly Manufacturing Operations, Edgardo Hernandez, emphasized the site’s strategic importance: “This isn’t just another manufacturing site — it represents a significant milestone for Lilly, as we begin building our first bioconjugate facility. With this cutting-edge site, Lilly is setting a new benchmark in bioconjugate innovation, advancing technologies that will expand what’s possible for patients. This investment reflects our bold vision, our commitment to transformative technologies and our dedication to being a good neighbor through sustainability efforts and support of local education and community partnerships.”
The selection of Goochland County followed an extensive evaluation process, with the region’s skilled workforce potential, infrastructure, and favorable business environment being key deciding factors. The company expects to announce the locations of its three other new U.S. manufacturing sites before the end of the year.
