Hamilton, ON – January 17, 2025 – The Synapse Life Science Consortium announces the release of the 2023 Hamilton Life Science Cluster Report, highlighting another transformative year for Hamilton’s thriving life science ecosystem.
First published in 2021, the Cluster Report is based on survey data from public and private organizations operating within Hamilton’s life sciences ecosystem and features key statistics on funding, organizational structures, workforce dynamics, research advancements, and the state of Hamilton’s facilities.
This year’s report reveals remarkable advancements across more than 230 public and private organizations within the ecosystem. Throughout 2023, investments in Hamilton’s life sciences totaled an impressive $989 million, underscoring the region’s momentum as a leading hub for health innovation. Highlights included $90 million for AtomVie Global Radiopharma Inc. and $61 million from CIHR to McMaster University, along with substantial contributions to new research and production facilities.
Among other key developments in 2023, Hamilton Health Sciences and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton collectively served over 2.3 million patients and expanded services with a $330 million investment in children’s healthcare. Hamilton’s life science workforce grew by nearly 5%, and there was a 17% increase in STEM enrollments at McMaster University. Growth of facility resources also continued, with 14.2 million square feet now dedicated to life science, including 1.36 million square feet of lab space, positioning Hamilton as a leading destination for health innovation and commercialization.
“Hamilton’s life science sector is driving growth and expanding our city’s influence on the global stage,” said Alex Muggah, Director of the Synapse Life Science Consortium. “The 2023 Cluster Report showcases how strategic partnerships, record investments, and leading facilities are turning Hamilton into a powerhouse for health innovation. The progress we’re seeing in job creation, groundbreaking research, and collaborations reflects the resilience and forward momentum that define Hamilton’s ecosystem.”
To read the 2023 Synapse Cluster report, please visit: https://synapseconsortium.com/cluster2023/
About Synapse Life Science Consortium
The formal regional cluster organization for the life sciences ecosystem in the greater Hamilton region, the Synapse Consortium acts as a strategic broker for the community, with the goal of supporting the commercialization of innovative health technology. Synapse partners include the anchor life science organizations in Hamilton, representing 49,000 employees and nearly $700 million in annual innovative research. Innovation Factory was a founding member of Synapse in 2016, along with Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, McMaster University, Mohawk College, Bay Area Health Trust, McMaster Innovation Park, City of Hamilton and Launchit Ventures.
