The biotechnology firm ProKidney has selected Greensboro to house a new biomanufacturing facility.
The Winston-Salem-based company plans on investing up to $458 million to expand its footprint in the Triad. That number, provided by the city of Greensboro, does not include the purchase price of the property.
ProKidney specializes in developing cell-based treatments for chronic kidney disease.
Executive Vice President of Economic Development for the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Marvin Price, is enthusiastic about the project.
"What I actually expect is for this to be a huge deal in our community," says Price.
Price notes that as many as 330 jobs for highly skilled workers will be created at the new facility. The average wage is expected to be about $74,000, as compared to the average Guilford County wage of $57,000.
Price says ProKidney’s investment also represents a further expansion of the Guilford County industry, which he predicts can now make its mark in the life science sector while offering a path for area graduates.
"I think this is really going to give us a chance to plant our flag and really diversify our industry base," he says.
Price feels this is also a win for Winston-Salem, where ProKidney will retain its headquarters.