TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today announced the publication of the Task Force on the Study of Biotech Competitiveness Final Report and Recommendations.  The Task Force was charged with studying economic policies necessary for increasing Florida’s competitiveness in attracting and retaining biotech manufacturing and distribution businesses.

“In these tough economic times, it is critical to ensure Florida maintains a competitive edge in biotechnology and continues the momentum already established by industry pioneers who have established a presence in Florida,” said Governor Crist. “I look forward to reviewing this report and its recommendations to see how we can further this industry’s efforts.” 

Created by the 2007 Florida Legislature, the 17-member Task Force was led by Senator Jeremy Ring and held a number of discussions which focused on securing Florida’s competitive edge in the growing biotech sector and furthering the development of Florida’s biotechnology economy.

Ernst & Young recognized Florida as one of the fastest growing states in the life science industry and as among the top 10 U.S. biotech centers.  Currently, there are over 120 biotechnology research and development companies in the state, excelling in the areas of biological devices, diagnostics and therapeutics.

The Task Force brought together not only its members, but stakeholders and other interested parties for discussions and debate working toward the goals of the Task Force. Organizations which participated or presented to the Task Force include representatives of the Board of Governors, the Departments of Education and Health, Enterprise Florida, Inc., Agency for Workforce Innovation, South Florida Water Management District and the State University System.

“Innovation is key to strengthening our economy,” said Dale A. Brill, Ph. D., director of the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade & Economic Development .  “This Task Force looked at how to keep innovation on the forefront and to leverage Florida’s investments in biotechnology to help ensure long-term economic sustainability and growth.” 

The Task Force’s final recommendations identified three key areas of focus: Entrepreneurship, Growing Florida’s Existing Biotech Industry and Recruiting Biotech Companies to Florida. These recommendations have the capacity to give Florida a competitive edge during a time when existing biotech hubs are competing for limited resources.

To view the Task Force on the Study of Biotech Competitiveness Final Report and Recommendations, please visit www.flgov.com/otted_biotech.

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