San Diego, January 30, 2026
The biotech landscape in San Diego contrasts sharply with the growth seen in Silicon Valley. While Silicon Valley attracts significant venture capital, San Diego struggles with company closures and layoffs despite notable investments in the sector. Recent support from organizations like the Prebys Foundation and major companies like Pfizer highlight efforts to bolster San Diego’s biotechnology field. With over 1,200 companies in the region, the future may hold promise with continued resilience and innovation despite current challenges.
San Diego’s Biotech Sector Faces Challenges Amidst Silicon Valley’s Growth
San Diego, California – Recent developments highlight the contrasting trajectories of the biotech sectors in San Diego and Silicon Valley.
Silicon Valley’s Biotech Expansion
Silicon Valley continues to attract substantial venture capital investments, solidifying its position as a global leader in biotech innovation. In 2024, the region secured approximately $7.7 billion in venture capital funding for its biotech and life sciences sector, with quarterly investments ranging from $1.65 billion to $1.8 billion, and a significant surge to $3.0 billion in Q1 2025.
San Diego’s Biotech Landscape
In contrast, San Diego’s biotech sector has experienced a more challenging environment. Despite being home to over 1,200 biotech companies, the region has faced recent setbacks, including company closures and layoffs. However, there have been notable investments, such as Candid Therapeutics raising $370 million in September 2024 to advance its bispecific T cell engager therapies for autoimmune diseases.
Recent Developments in San Diego
In May 2025, the Prebys Foundation awarded $1 million to San Diego State University to support biomedical research and retain early and mid-career scientists amid federal funding cuts. Additionally, in early 2024, Pfizer signed a 15-year lease for a 230,000-square-foot research space in San Diego’s Torrey Pines area, following its acquisition of Seagen.
Conclusion
While Silicon Valley’s biotech sector continues to thrive with significant investments, San Diego’s industry faces challenges but is taking steps to adapt and grow. The region’s resilience and ongoing efforts may pave the way for future advancements in the biotech field.
FAQ
What is the current state of San Diego’s biotech sector?
San Diego’s biotech sector has faced challenges, including company closures and layoffs. However, there have been notable investments, such as Candid Therapeutics raising $370 million in September 2024 to advance its bispecific T cell engager therapies for autoimmune diseases.
How does San Diego’s biotech sector compare to Silicon Valley’s?
Silicon Valley continues to attract substantial venture capital investments, solidifying its position as a global leader in biotech innovation. In 2024, the region secured approximately $7.7 billion in venture capital funding for its biotech and life sciences sector, with quarterly investments ranging from $1.65 billion to $1.8 billion, and a significant surge to $3.0 billion in Q1 2025.
What recent developments have occurred in San Diego’s biotech sector?
In May 2025, the Prebys Foundation awarded $1 million to San Diego State University to support biomedical research and retain early and mid-career scientists amid federal funding cuts. Additionally, in early 2024, Pfizer signed a 15-year lease for a 230,000-square-foot research space in San Diego’s Torrey Pines area, following its acquisition of Seagen.
What are the prospects for San Diego’s biotech sector?
While the sector faces challenges, San Diego’s biotech industry is taking steps to adapt and grow. The region’s resilience and ongoing efforts may pave the way for future advancements in the biotech field.
Key Features of San Diego’s Biotech Sector
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Biotech Companies | Over 1,200 |
| Recent Investment | Candid Therapeutics raised $370 million in September 2024 |
| Notable Lease Agreement | Pfizer signed a 15-year lease for 230,000 sq ft in Torrey Pines area in early 2024 |
| Federal Funding Support | Prebys Foundation awarded $1 million to SDSU in May 2025 |
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