Philadelphia’s PROPEL Tech Hub: Building a Strong Community for Innovation and Precision Medicine

A Collaborative Community at the Core
The Greater Philadelphia Region Precision Medicine Tech Hub, led by Ben Franklin Technology Partners, unites over 70 organizations across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. This collaboration centers on making Philadelphia a global leader in precision medicine, an innovative healthcare approach that tailors treatments based on genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
This collective effort brings together an extensive network of local institutions, medical centers, universities, startups, and corporations with a shared goal of advancing the future of healthcare. Philadelphia's role as a nexus for biotech and life sciences is further strengthened by this vast network of organizations that combine resources and expertise to push the boundaries of innovation.
Despite Philadelphia’s $75 million request for federal funding not being selected in the first round, the region remains committed to advancing its vision. According to Tony Green, Chief Scientific Officer at Ben Franklin Technology Partners, the PROPEL Consortium, which led the proposal, is dedicated to moving forward. "We haven’t given up," Green said. "We’re still talking. [The] steering committee is still talking. We’re talking to all our partners."
Green emphasizes that the designation itself carries immense value and opens the door to future opportunities. The Tech Hub label brings visibility, recognition, and a unique chance to build on existing collaborations, positioning the region for future success. This isn't the end of the journey—it’s just the beginning.
Strengthening Philadelphia’s Legacy in Life Sciences
Philadelphia has long been a leader in the life sciences sector, particularly with gene and cell therapies. The city is home to groundbreaking institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, which pioneered advancements in gene therapy, and Spark Therapeutics, the company that developed the first FDA-approved gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases. These organizations, along with many others, form the backbone of the region’s biotech innovation ecosystem.
While the region's initial request for funding wasn’t granted, Green is optimistic about the broader impact of these efforts. "The strength of the Philadelphia biotech community is not defined by a single grant. We’re building a long-term vision and infrastructure that will benefit our region and the nation," Green said. He remains committed to the Tech Hub’s mission to build on the region’s life sciences legacy and further propel Philadelphia’s leadership in precision medicine.
The collaborative nature of the initiative ensures that Philadelphia remains resilient in the face of setbacks. Green noted that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) has promised to continue supporting all tech hubs, including those not selected for immediate funding. “The EDA is committed to supporting all of the hubs, including the ones that were not given the implementation award,” Green stated. This ongoing support is crucial, especially as new opportunities for funding and collaboration arise through the CHIPS and Science Act.
Overcoming Funding Challenges: A Promise of Future Support
While the region was not selected for the first round of funding, Green remains optimistic. "The EDA is committed to supporting all of the hubs, including the ones that were not given the implementation award," Green said. He emphasized that the region’s work is far from over and that federal officials will visit the city to evaluate its progress and provide feedback. “We’re still talking,” Green reiterated, highlighting the continued conversations and partnerships that will help propel the initiative forward.
The Tech Hub designation also provides access to future funding and resources, opening the door to capital providers, networking opportunities, and partnerships that will help secure the funding needed to fuel the region’s growth. Green expressed confidence that these connections will help the region secure alternative funding streams in the future, ensuring the continuity of progress in precision medicine and biotech development.
The EDA’s support is critical, and more funding is expected as the CHIPS and Science Act progresses. Green expressed confidence that the region remains in the running for future financial support, noting that the Tech Hubs Program is designed to decentralize technological innovation, providing emerging regions like Philadelphia with the opportunity to thrive.
Building a Stronger, More Diverse Community
One of the key focuses of the Philadelphia Precision Medicine Tech Hub is community building. In addition to advancing cutting-edge healthcare, the hub is committed to creating a diverse, skilled workforce, expanding pathways for careers in biotech, and ensuring that innovations are accessible to a broader population.
Green is particularly passionate about workforce development as a critical component of the hub's mission. He highlighted the importance of creating programs that connect young people, underemployed citizens, and individuals from underrepresented groups with opportunities in the life sciences industry. “It’s all about creating pathways to opportunity,” Green said. The collaborative approach to workforce development is not only about solving the current needs of the industry, but also about preparing the region for future challenges and expanding access to high-quality, high-skill jobs for all members of the community.
Conclusion: Philadelphia’s Commitment to Building a Biotechnology Community
Philadelphia’s designation as a Tech Hub reflects the city’s potential, its resilience, and the strength of its collaborative spirit. Green concluded, “We will continue to support our region’s life sciences assets as they develop groundbreaking innovations and work to make this region a global leader in precision medicine.” Despite setbacks, the region’s commitment to this initiative remains unwavering. With ongoing collaboration and strategic planning, Philadelphia is well-positioned to become a global leader in biotechnology and precision medicine.