New Report Highlights Continued Growth of Kentucky's Bioscience Industry and Its Impact on Innovation and the Economy
Louisville, KY (October 28, 2026) – Kentucky's bioscience industry continues to strengthen its role as a major economic driver for the Commonwealth, according to a new report from the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and TEConomy Partners. The report found that Kentucky's bioscience workforce grew by 6.9 percent between 2021 and 2025, reaching 17,675 jobs across the state and keeping pace with national growth.
Kentucky saw employment gains across all five major bioscience subsectors, with medical devices and equipment, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural feedstock and industrial biosciences achieving double-digit growth.
"The bioscience industry continues to create opportunities for Kentucky workers, attract investment, and advance innovations," said Kyle Keeney, President and CEO of Kentucky Life Sciences Council. "From agriculture to manufacturing and global distribution, Kentucky's bioscience ecosystem is fueling economic growth while improving quality of life and strengthening agricultural systems.”
Kentucky's bioscience industry continues to deliver significant value to workers and communities. The report found that the average annual bioscience wage reached $113,580, 81 percent higher than the state's private sector, reflecting the industry's concentration of highly skilled, high-value jobs.
The Commonwealth’s bioscience-related distribution continues to be Kentucky’s largest subsector, accounting for nearly half of industry employment. Supported by its central location and world-class logistics infrastructure, Kentucky serves as a critical hub for the packaging and distribution of medicines to patients around the world. As new therapies become increasingly complex and specialized, Kentucky's biologistics network plays an essential role in ensuring lifesaving treatments reach patients safely and efficiently.
"The bioscience logistics industry represents a significant opportunity for future growth in Kentucky," Keeney said. "By continuing to support policies that foster investment, we can build on this momentum and further strengthen Kentucky's critical position in the bioscience ecosystem."
To view the full report, please click here.
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About Kentucky Life Sciences Council
Kentucky Life Sciences Council serves as a resource for lawmakers, industry participants, the media, the public, and those outside the state wishing to learn more about Kentucky life sciences and biotechnology. KLSC uses advocacy to create a more favorable business environment, working with industry and government leaders to promote effective policies on behalf of the industry.
About BIO
BIO is the world’s largest trade association representing biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products.
