Apozeal Pharmaceuticals Inc. has secured a $4.1 million investment to expand its drug manufacturing operations in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, with support from a $1.1 million state funding package announced by Governor Josh Shapiro's administration. The expansion will create at least 70 new high-quality jobs over the next three years while retaining 22 existing positions at the company's 70,000-square-foot FDA-registered facility in Levittown.
Manufacturing Expansion Details
The expansion will enable Apozeal to add new production lines at its Bristol Township facility, allowing the company to manufacture seven additional FDA-approved Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) products and additional over-the-counter medications. Currently, Apozeal holds 11 FDA-approved ANDA products along with several over-the-counter items for cough, cold, pain, and fever, but only produces four of these products.
"Through this expansion, we are bringing 70 new jobs to the region, and will have the opportunity to greatly expand our product line," said Sadath Shareef, Chairman and CEO of Apozeal. The company acquired the Levittown facility in 2023 with the strategic goal of manufacturing its FDA-approved products domestically, aiming to produce 100% of its products in the United States.
State Investment Package
The Shapiro Administration's $1.1 million support package includes a $925,000 Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority loan, a $150,000 Pennsylvania First Grant, and a $100,000 WEDnet grant for worker training. "We'd like to thank Governor Shapiro and his team for their support and investment of $1.1 million towards this expansion," Shareef stated. "Their support was instrumental in helping bring this project to life."
Governor Shapiro emphasized the strategic importance of the investment, stating, "Pennsylvania is a leader in biotech and life sciences with a talented workforce, access to key markets, and significant laboratory infrastructure. Apozeal's continued growth in our Commonwealth strengthens this legacy while creating more opportunity for Pennsylvanians."
Company Background and Industry Context
Apozeal Pharmaceuticals traces its roots back to Biopharm Inc., a contract drug manufacturer founded by pharmacists in 1992. In 2018, Biopharm's assets were acquired by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Inc., leading to the eventual formation of Apozeal. The company offers comprehensive services including research and development, analytical testing, consulting, manufacturing, packaging, and drug development.
Pennsylvania's life sciences sector represents a national powerhouse, employing more than 100,000 people across nearly 3,100 companies and world-renowned research institutions. Over the past five years, Pennsylvania researchers and companies have secured over 10,700 new life sciences patents, ranking fourth-highest in the country.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The life sciences sector is expected to create more than 6,500 new jobs across Pennsylvania over the next decade, with nearly 60% of that growth concentrated in research and development. "Life sciences is one of the five key sectors outlined in our Economic Development Strategy, and we're focused on ensuring this industry continues to thrive in Pennsylvania," said DCED Secretary Rick Siger.
Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has secured over $25.6 billion in private sector investments, creating over 12,400 jobs. The administration's commitment to the life sciences industry is further demonstrated through Governor Shapiro's proposed $50 million investment to spur innovation across the Commonwealth in his 2025-26 budget, including a $30 million initiative specifically to grow life sciences jobs.
The Apozeal expansion represents a significant step toward domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing independence, addressing supply chain vulnerabilities while strengthening Pennsylvania's position as a leader in the life sciences industry.
