MassBio Rates Westborough at Platinum Level

The Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio) recently gave Westborough a platinum rating, in reference to the town’s commitment to and potential for the biotech industry. This rating, which is the highest possible rating to receive, signifies that Westborough’s zoning practices and infrastructure meet certain criteria that are favorable for biotech companies.

The more than 400 biotechnology companies in Massachusetts employ over 45,000 people, producing more than $4 billion in payroll. Close to eight percent of the “global drug pipeline” comes from Massachusetts with the nearly 1,100 biotechnology drugs in the developmental stage, according to MassBio. The platinum rating will assist Westborough to increase its role in this thriving industry, thus attracting more jobs and revenue to the town.

"Receiving the platinum level designation from MassBio is a grand step for Westborough. It means that MassBio will list us on its biotechnology search web site as a community that is ready and willing to welcome biotech research and manufacturing businesses,” said Westborough Town Planner James Robbins.

MassBio is a nonprofit organization promoting biotechnology’s economic and social benefits within local communities, and local and state governments. The nonprofit represents more than 600 companies and organizations.

Biotechnology can best be described as “the commercial application of modern biology,” according to MassBio. This includes medical research on health problems such as heart disease and cancer, along with agricultural applications.

Three biotech companies already have facilities in Westborough, employing nearly 1,000 residents, according to Robbins.

“This designation gives us a large competitive advantage when vying for biotech companies in the technology marketplace. Westborough has long been a business friendly town and we are very pleased with this latest recognition,” noted Robbins.