THBI celebrates 30 years of Life Science Advocacy and Impact

     The Texas Healthcare & Bioscience Institute (THBI), the statewide public policy voice of the healthcare and bioscience industry, proudly commemorates their 30th anniversary this year. Since its founding in 1996, THBI has championed policies that advance biotechnology innovation throughout Texas, strengthening the state’s position as a global leader in life sciences.

     Over the past three decades, THBI has remained steadfast in its commitment to develop and advocate for policies and actions that support healthcare and bioscience innovation in Texas. With a diverse membership of pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device companies, start-ups, academic institutions, economic development organizations, and service providers, THBI has amplified industry priorities, fostered collaboration, and engaged with policymakers at every level.

     “THBI has been instrumental in growing the life science ecosystem in Texas and helping shape an environment that allows life science companies of all sizes to thrive,” said Victoria Ford, President and CEO. “As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we honor the partnerships and collaborative spirit of this entire industry.”

  Along the way, there have been significant accomplishments in the life science sector, including the development of the Texas Emerging Technology Fund in 2005, the creation of the Cancer Prevention Institute of Texas in 2007, the most recent success of the creation of the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas in 2025.

     Since THBI’s founding in 1996, the state of Texas’ bioscience industry has grown – and continues to grow – drastically:

• In 2016, Texas employed nearly 90,000 employees in bioscience; today, there are

over 129,245.1

• There are over 9,212 bioscience-related establishments as of 2025, increasing from 5,500 in 2016. 2

• Texas now ranks third in the country for academic R&D expenditures, totaling $4.6 billion.

• Texas also ranks fifth in the country in venture capital investments, raising $8.7 billion since 2019.

  As THBI marks 30 years of service, the organization remains committed to championing policies that ensure Texas remains at the forefront of life science innovation. Along with its members, industry partners, and the policymakers whose collaboration has fueled its success, THBI will continue building a strong, innovative, and competitive life sciences ecosystem that drives economic growth and delivers meaningful health solutions across Texas.