Eli Lilly and Company has announced it plans to build a USD 5 billion manufacturing facility just west of Richmond, Virginia, in Goochland County.

The new site, expected to be completed within the next five years, will be the company's first dedicated, fully integrated active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and drug product facility for its emerging bioconjugate platform and monoclonal antibody portfolio. The site will also be used to boost its domestic manufacturing of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).

Earlier this year, Lilly announced plans to bolster its domestic medicine production across therapeutic areas by building four new pharmaceutical manufacturing sites in the United States. The planned Virginia facility is the first to be announced and is part of the company's USD 50 billion in US capital expansion commitments since 2020.

"Our investment in Virginia underscores our commitment to US innovation and manufacturing – creating high-quality jobs, strengthening communities, and advancing the health and well-being of Americans nationwide. 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,” said David A. Ricks, Lilly chair and CEO.    

Lilly said the new facility will feature advanced technologies, including machine learning, AI, and automated systems, to ensure right-first-time execution and the safe, reliable supply of medicines. To fully leverage digital integration and automation, the company plans to collaborate locally by partnering with universities and supporting community education initiatives in Virginia.

 "This isn't just another manufacturing site — it represents a significant milestone for Lilly, as we begin building our first bioconjugate facility," said Edgardo Hernandez, executive vice president and president of Lilly Manufacturing Operations.

"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,” he added.

The company plans to announce the three remaining US manufacturing sites this year and expects to begin making medicines at these four facilities within five years.