The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County (BDB) hosted its Life Science Advisory Council on February 10, 2026, bringing together senior leaders from life sciences, healthcare, research institutions, higher education, and government at the BDB offices in downtown West Palm Beach.
The Council serves as a strategic forum focused on strengthening and expanding Palm Beach County’s life science and healthcare ecosystem.
A High-Wage, High-Growth Industry Cluster
Palm Beach County’s life science sector includes:
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684 life science companies
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7,729 employees
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$121,899 average annual salary
The broader healthcare sector includes:
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6,072 companies
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71,745 employees
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Nearly $90,000 average annual salary
These figures position the Palm Beaches as a competitive market for biotechnology, pharmaceutical services, medical device, and healthcare operations seeking talent, research collaboration, and executive leadership depth.
Strategic Discussion and Industry Alignment
The meeting opened with remarks from Gina Melby, Chair of the Life Science Advisory Council and CEO of the Alan B. Miller Medical Center, followed by an update from BDB President & CEO Kelly Smallridge.
Agenda topics included:
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Biotech and pharmaceutical R&D discussion
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Research institute and FAU updates
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Marketing existing life science assets
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Available space for lab and industry users
The discussion focused on aligning industry, academic, and economic development strategies to support continued growth and investment in the region.
The Palm Beaches is an Innovative Hub for the Life Sciences
Through public-private collaboration, the Life Science Advisory Council continues to guide initiatives that attract new companies, support expansion of existing firms, and strengthen the region’s identity as a premier life science and healthcare hub in Florida.
For companies evaluating expansion or relocation opportunities, Palm Beach County offers strong wages, executive leadership talent, research partnerships, and a coordinated economic development strategy.
Explore Options for Collaborating with the BDB
Learn more about free economic development services available to growing life science companies, explore the innovative sectors that call the Palm Beaches home, or get connected with the Business Development Board, whether it’s growth questions or to get engaged in our local economic development efforts as a BDB investor.
