Natick, MA – ABI-LAB, a bio-incubator and accelerator focused in the life sciences, has opened its third facility in Natick, bringing total facility area to 112,000sf.
As a working habitat, ABI-LAB fosters a variety of startup disciplines across stages of development. It occupies a distinct position in the state’s life science sector by utilizing a shared services model. Leases include access to innovation labs with advanced instruments, deionized water, CO2, gas, backup generators, and HVAC for BL1 and BL2 applications. The shared services model supports technical excellence and a creative atmosphere throughout the research process. Research conducted at the facility includes immunology, oncology, regenerative medicine, diagnostics and precision medicine. The build-to-suit dedicated laboratories range from 900 – 2,500sf. ABI-LAB 3 – at 35,000sf – consists of 10 laboratories.
“Massachusetts is the global hub of life science innovation thanks to our robust ecosystem of hospitals, research institutions, leading companies, and incubators like ABI-LAB,” said Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao, guest speaker at the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Through the Mass Leads Act, Massachusetts is reinvesting in the tools and resources necessary to support growth in this vital industry, and we are grateful for ABI-LAB’s expansion in our state with this new facility.”
Since 2022, ABI-LAB tenants have raised over $2 billion in early stage and $1.3 billion in late-stage funding. More than 400 consistent jobs have been created or brought to Natick through ABI-LAB’s tenant companies. Additionally, over 1,000 jobs were created by graduate companies. Twenty percent of the tenants are international and have chosen ABI-LAB as their U.S. headquarters. “The start-up mindset is about exploration, experimentation, rapid learnings and failures. This project isn’t about creating a building. It is centered on a process that supports solutions for thousands of patients,” said Gary Kaufman, COO, ABI-LAB.
To mark the building’s completion, a $10,000 donation from ABI-LAB and Dacon’s Designed with Dignity philanthropy was presented to Cam Duso, representing MassBay Community College’s STEM program. As a biotech major, Duso’s research focus is nucleotide changes that result in spinal muscular atrophy. “Being a student and working feels like two full-time jobs. These additional funds – along with the MassEducate and MassReconnect programs – allow students more time focused on studying and less on living expenses,” said Duso.
