The life sciences industry in Manitoba represents a dedicated pool of expertise in biomedical and agricultural research with an emerging environmental component.

A wide range of stakeholders, including established corporations with a biotechnology division, universities, research institutes, government laboratories, venture capital firms, regulatory authorities and suppliers involved directly or indirectly in biotechnology have taken advantage of Manitoba’s world-class research expertise, unique facilities and cost-effective research environment.

Within this community are firms applying traditional and new biotechnology techniques to manufacture selected health and agricultural niche products. The potential for critical links between agriculture, health and environmental biotech activities has positioned Manitoba as an attractive Canadian site for life sciences research.

Manitoba's life sciences sector includes 37 biotechnology companies – 15 agricultural, 21 biomedical and one environmental.

Together, they generate $200 million in annual revenue. The industry sector employs staff from various disciplines including biology, chemistry and engineering with current company employment at more than 1,600 people. Eighty-four per cent of the sector's labour force are employed by five corner-stone companies:

Cangene Corporation, Biovail Corporation, Apotex Fermentation Inc., Monsanto Canada Inc. and Vita Health.

Research is a strong economic driver in the life sciences sector. The R&D infra-structure and capabilities are important to its growth and viability. Life sciences is one of the most R&D intensive sectors in Manitoba with more than $120 million spent annually. There are currently more than 1,800 research and technical staff employed within 20 research institutions supporting the life sciences sector.

Also visit the following sections:

• Manitoba's OEM Advantages
• Industry Sector Summaries