Investor enthusiasm for cell and gene therapy is growing at a breathtaking pace

Investor enthusiasm for the cell and gene therapy space is robust and growing at a breathtaking pace. From R&D through M&A, the deal data – spanning only the most recent three years – is compelling.  Figures below, prepared by partner DealForma, illustrate the national trends.

Upfront payments for R&D partnerships in cell & gene therapy doubled from $15 million in 2017 to $30 million in 2018, and grew another 37% to $41 million in 2019.

The total value of signed R&D partnerships for the period 2017-2019 exceeds $45 billion, which means cell & gene therapy ranks third among overall R&D deal values. Already, M&A activity in the space has reached $46 billion. These trends – beginning at the early stages of company activity through significant growth – demonstrate the potential these sectors have to positively impact the economic growth of the Greater Philadelphia region in the coming years. It’s why the CEO Council for Growth, through its Cell & Gene Therapy and Connected Health Initiative, is working along with our partners to leverage our assets and existing strengths in these areas.