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August 31, 2026
The White House, August 31, 2026 - ADVANCING MOST-FAVORED-NATION (MFN) PRICING: Today, President Donald J. Trump announced nine new agreements with pharmaceutical manufacturers to lower prescription drug prices for Americans in line with the lowest prices paid by other developed nations (known as the most-favored-nation, or MFN, price). The agreements bring the total number of pharmaceutical manufacturers with MFN deals to 26, covering 89% of the branded drug market. The nine manufacturers are comprised of mid-sized pharmaceutical companies, including Alcon, Astellas Pharma, BeOne Medicines, BridgeBio, CSL, Kyowa Kirin, Sun Pharma, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and UCB. The agreements reduce prices on drugs that treat numerous costly, chronic, and even rare diseases, including hemophilia, Parkinson’s disease, macular degeneration, glaucoma, liver disease, skin conditions, and various forms of cancer. The agreements will provide every State Medicaid program in the country access to MFN drug prices on products made by the nine companies, resulting in billions of dollars in savings for Americans and continuing President Trump’s historic efforts to strengthen the program for the most vulnerable. The agreements ensure foreign nations can no longer use price controls to freeride on American innovation by guaranteeing MFN prices on all new innovative medicines the nine companies bring to market. Each of these manufacturers has agreed to fundamentally rebalance international drug pricing by providing MFN pricing to American patients. BOLSTERING AMERICA’S PHARMACEUTICAL SUPPLY CHAINS AND RESERVES: These nine pharmaceutical manufacturers committed to invest at least $19.6 billion collectively in U.S. manufacturing in the near term. Additionally, as part of the MFN agreements, several companies are donating active pharmaceutical ingredients for key products to the Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve (SAPIR) to reduce reliance on foreign nations and ensure the United States has an adequate supply of such products in the event of an emergency. UCB will contribute 163 tons of levetiracetam, an anticonvulsant used to control and prevent certain types of seizures, to the SAPIR. Sun Pharma will contribute 71.4 tons of clindamycin and 6.75 tons of doxycycline; both antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, to the SAPIR. Teva Pharmaceuticals will contribute 45 metric tons of metronidazole, an antibiotic and antiprotozoal used to treat certain bacterial and parasitic infections, and 4.8 tons of amlodipine, an antihypertensive drug, to the SAPIR. Astellas will contribute 25 kg of tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant used to prevent organ rejection in people who have had organ transplants, to the SAPIR. LOWERING COSTS FOR AMERICANS: President Trump’s decisive and historic actions are lowering drug prices for the American people. Since its February launch, patients have saved more than $700 million on medicines through TrumpRx, including massive discounts on some of the most popular and costly medications used to treat obesity and infertility. In July of 2026, senior citizens without access to GLP-1 coverage to treat obesity gained access for just $50 per month. In the two months since the launch of this program, over 500,000 seniors have saved a total of $216 million dollars on these life-changing medicines. The Council of Economic Advisers estimates the total savings from President Trump’s MFN deals to reach $600 billion over the next decade. DELIVERING ON PROMISES TO PUT AMERICAN PATIENTS FIRST: President Trump is delivering on promises for American patients, accomplishing historic wins that the political establishment did not believe were possible. On May 12, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order titled: “Delivering Most-Favored-Nation Prescription Drug Pricing to American Patients” directing the Administration to take numerous actions to bring American drug prices in line with those paid by similar nations. On July 31, 2025, President Trump sent letters to 17 of the leading pharmaceutical manufacturers outlining the steps they must take to bring down the prices of prescription drugs in the United States to match the lowest price offered in other developed nations. There are now MFN deals with each of those leading pharmaceutical manufacturers. On September 30, 2025, President Trump announced the first agreement, with the drug manufacturer Pfizer, to bring MFN prices to American patients. On December 1, 2025, the Office of the United States Trade Representative, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Health and Human Services announced an agreement with the United Kingdom (U.K.) that will increase the net price of new prescription drugs by 25% in the U.K., helping ensure they pay their fair share for innovative medicines. On December 19, 2025, President Trump announced nine new agreements with major pharmaceutical companies. On February 5, 2026, President Trump launched TrumpRx.gov , where patients can access large discounts on many of the most popular and highest-priced medicines in the country, paying prices in line with the MFN price. As of today, August 31, the Administration now has agreements with Pfizer, Astra Zeneca, EMD Serono, Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Amgen, Bristol Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, GSK, Merck, Novartis, Sanofi, Johnson & Johnson, AbbVie, Regeneron, Alcon, Astellas Pharma, BeOne Medicines, BridgeBio, CSL, Kyowa Kirin, Sun Pharma, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and UCB. President Trump is calling on Congress to enact the Great Healthcare Plan , a comprehensive plan to lower drug prices, lower insurance premiums, hold big insurance companies accountable, and maximize price transparency. Source: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Announces Deal with Nine Additional Pharmaceutical Manufacturers to Lower Drug Prices for Americans – The White House
August 31, 2026
NexGard® Plus donation to Johns Creek Police Department K-9 officers marks the company's commitment to the community. JOHNS CREEK, Ga. (August 31, 2026)– Boehringer Ingelheim today celebrated the grand opening of its new U.S. Animal Health headquarters in Johns Creek, Georgia, marking a significant milestone in the company's commitment to innovation, talent, and the future of animal health. Johns Creek was selected for its access to talent in one of the region's fastest-growing life sciences and innovation corridors, and proximity to other Boehringer sites in Georgia. The grand opening brought together elected officials, community leaders, customers, partners, and employees to celebrate Boehringer's presence in Georgia and its purpose of Transforming Lives for Generations through science and innovation. “The animals we care for and the customers we serve are at the center of everything we do,” said Peter Ploeger, U.S. Animal Health Country Managing Director, Boehringer Ingelheim . “This headquarters was designed to bring our people together, inspire collaboration, and strengthen our ability to develop solutions that improve the lives of companion animals, livestock, and the people who care for them. We are proud to call Johns Creek home and excited about the impact we will create together.” The Johns Creek headquarters complements Boehringer's broader Georgia footprint, which includes research, development, and manufacturing operations in Athens and manufacturing operations in Gainesville. Together, these sites, combining manufacturing, innovation and commercial activities, underline the importance of the U.S. for the company, which continues to invest in Georgia operations to deliver solutions that advance animal health around the world, according to event remarks from Dr. Armin Wiesler, Member of the Board of Managing Directors, Animal Health Business Unit . Georgia and local leaders, including Select Fulton Director of Economic Development Samir Abdullahi, highlighted Boehringer Ingelheim's continued investment in Georgia and commitment to the Johns Creek community. “Georgia continues to attract world-class companies because of our skilled workforce, business-friendly environment, and commitment to innovation,” said Georgia Gov. Brian P. Kemp . “Boehringer Ingelheim's investment in Johns Creek, along with their strong support of First Lady Marty Kemp's animal welfare efforts and K-9 law enforcement officers, reinforces their commitment to being a long-term partner with the State of Georgia." As part of the grand opening celebration, Alexandra McMenamy, U.S. Animal Health, Head of Pet at Boehringer , joined Chief Mitchell and local officials in presenting a donation of NexGard® Plus parasite protection to the Johns Creek Police Department's K-9 Unit in recognition of the department's service to the community. “We are proud to welcome a company committed to the well-being of animals,” said Mayor John Bradberry . “Boehringer Ingelheim’s support of the Johns Creek Police Department’s K-9 Unit is greatly appreciated.” The donation, made just after International Dog Day (August 26), highlights the company's commitment to supporting both animal health and the communities where its employees live and work. 
August 21, 2026
Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN) has named Georgia #4 among its “Next 5 States” for emerging U.S. biopharma clusters . The article highlights UCB’s planned $2 billion investment at in Gwinnett County, Micron Biomedical’s new Alpharetta facility, Manus Bio’s expansion in Augusta, Science Square, Emory University, the CDC — and Georgia Life Sciences’ 10-year Life Sciences Roadmap . This recognition is exciting. But even more importantly, it validates the work happening across our entire ecosystem — and perfect momentum as we head into the 2026 Georgia Life Sciences Summit next week. Read more by visiting: Next 10 U.S. Biopharma Clusters
August 17, 2026
Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) Senior Vice President of Science & Regulatory Affairs Annetta Beauregard issued the following statement on the release of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) VIII commitment letter: “For more than 30 years, PDUFA has helped deliver hundreds of new medicines to American patients. As a lead industry negotiator for the PDUFA VIII agreement, BIO supports the PDUFA VIII commitment letter and its strengthening of regulatory review, advancing innovation, and helping deliver safe and effective treatments to patients. “Specifically, the PDUFA VIII agreement includes important commitments that bolster the FDA’s core review activities, ensure accountability for predictable performance, improve financial sustainability and improve communication, transparency and efficiency. “Timely, bipartisan reauthorization of PDUFA is vital for protecting the health of Americans, strengthening U.S. competitiveness, and maintaining America’s global leadership in medical innovation. BIO is committed to working with Congress to ensure reauthorization by September 30, 2027.” The FDA has announced plans to hold a hybrid public meeting at 9am on 9/16 to discuss the proposed enhancements for the reauthorization of PDUFA for fiscal years (FYs) 2028 through 2033. Learn More about PDUFA and the PDUFA VIII commitment letter HERE .
August 17, 2026
Representing Georgia’s life sciences community, GLS emphasized the importance of advancing policies that improve affordability and patient access while preserving the environment necessary for continued biomedical innovation. In its comments, GLS urged CMS to maintain a framework grounded in FDA regulatory determinations and raised concerns about how certain proposed policies could affect post-approval research and development, investment in new indications, and patient access to innovative therapies. GLS also encouraged CMS to consider the broader implications for healthcare delivery, including the potential impact on patients and providers in rural and underserved communities. As federal drug pricing policy continues to evolve, Georgia Life Sciences will continue to advocate for approaches that balance affordability, access, and innovation while ensuring Georgia’s life sciences community has a voice in the policymaking process. Read Georgia Life Sciences’ full comments to CMS ( click here ).
August 10, 2026
Award recipients will be recognized at the Golden Helix Awards Ceremony on August 25 ATLANTA, Ga. – Georgia Life Sciences today announced the recipients of the 2026 Golden Helix Awards, recognizing the individuals, organizations, partnerships, and investments that are advancing innovation, improving patient care, strengthening Georgia's economy, and shaping the future of the state's life sciences ecosystem. The honorees will be celebrated during the Georgia Life Sciences Summit Welcome Reception and Golden Helix Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, August 25, at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, kicking off Georgia's premier gathering of life sciences leaders ahead of the Summit on Wednesday, August 26. "For nearly two decades, the Golden Helix Awards have celebrated the people and organizations whose vision, collaboration, and commitment continue to elevate Georgia as a global leader in life sciences," said Maria Thacker Goethe, President & CEO of Georgia Life Sciences. "This year's recipients represent the extraordinary innovation taking place across our state—from groundbreaking research and transformative investments to workforce development and community impact. We are proud to recognize their achievements and the lasting difference they are making for patients, our economy, and the future of healthcare." 2026 Golden Helix Award Honorees Phoenix Award · Micron Biomedical, Emory University, and CDC – Industry-Academic Partnership Innovation Awards · Dr. Kyle Johnsen, University of Georgia · Focused Cryo Community Awards · Angela Gill Nelms, Biolocity · Frugal Science Academy · Jessica King Holden, Gwinnett Regional Science, Engineering + Innovation Fair · Dr. Marlo Vernon, Augusta University Deal of the Year Awards Economic Development · UCB · Shriners Children's Research Institute and Georgia Tech Acquisition · LymphaTech & Tactile Medical · Avanos Medical Financing · Altesa BioSciences Federal Grant · HEAL: Healthy Ameliorated Lymphatics, Georgia Institute of Technology · Manus & U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (HHS/ASPR) Emerging Leader of the Year · Dr. Ryan Devine, Medical Innovation Hub, Georgia Tech Legislator of the Year · Rep. Matt Dubnik (R-29) Teacher of the Year · Ana White, DeKalb High School of Technology North at Cross Keys The Golden Helix Awards recognize excellence across Georgia's life sciences ecosystem, honoring breakthrough scientific discoveries, strategic partnerships, commercial achievements, community leadership, and investments that strengthen the state's position as a national leader in biotechnology, medical technology, pharmaceuticals, research, and advanced manufacturing. The awards ceremony serves as the opening event of the 2026 Georgia Life Sciences Summit, bringing together executives, researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and healthcare leaders, and academic institutions from across the state to celebrate innovation and explore opportunities shaping the future of Georgia's life sciences industry. The Georgia Life Sciences Summit will take place on Wednesday, August 26, at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, featuring nationally recognized speakers, executive panels, CEO spotlights, networking opportunities, and the Solutions Corridor showcasing organizations driving the industry's continued growth. To learn more about the Georgia Life Sciences Summit or to register, visit https://www.galifesciences.org/summit.
August 7, 2026
One of the biggest benefits of becoming a Georgia Life Sciences Student Member is access to discounted registration for Georgia's premier life sciences conference—bringing together CEOs, researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from across the state. Better yet, Student Membership is only $25 per year , making it one of the best investments you can make in your future. The Georgia Life Sciences Emerging Leaders Network (ELN) is the official student membership community of Georgia Life Sciences, created to connect students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career professionals with Georgia's thriving life sciences ecosystem. As an ELN member, you'll build meaningful peer-to-peer relationships, engage with industry leaders, explore career opportunities, and gain access to professional development programs designed to help you launch a successful career in the life sciences. As a member, you'll have opportunities to: Connect with fellow students, postdocs, and emerging professionals from across Georgia. Expand your network through peer-to-peer engagement and professional networking events. Learn from industry leaders and gain exposure to Georgia's life sciences ecosystem. Participate in workforce and career development programming. Access Career Connections Student members also receive exclusive access to the Georgia Life Sciences Career Connections LinkedIn Group , where you can: Discover internships and job opportunities. Connect with employers, recruiters, and industry professionals. Stay informed about career fairs, networking events, and workforce initiatives. Engage with a growing community of future life sciences leaders. Student Member Benefits Georgia Life Sciences Student Membership: $25/year Georgia Life Sciences Summit Registration: $150 Access to the Emerging Leaders Network Career Connections LinkedIn Group Networking events and professional development opportunities Industry news, workforce resources, and member communications Whether you're exploring careers in biotechnology, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, digital health, or research, Georgia Life Sciences connects you to the people and opportunities that can help shape your future. Join today . Build your network. Advance your career.
August 6, 2026
From breakthrough therapeutics to next-generation medical technologies, tomorrow's innovators take the stage at the Georgia Life Sciences Summit. Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson, the Startup Showcase will highlight eight of Georgia's most promising early-stage life sciences companies as they present their innovations during the Summit Luncheon on August 26. These emerging companies are tackling some of healthcare's biggest challenges across therapeutics, diagnostics, AI, and medical technology, while demonstrating the depth of innovation taking place throughout Georgia's life sciences ecosystem. Meet the 2026 Startup Showcase Companies: Abundance Biopharma Corporation Athna Biotech Atomistic Insights NovAb Nytricx Oridivus TremeBio YoungHeartValve Following the presentations, each company will participate in a live investor Q&A featuring an exceptional panel of venture leaders: Emily Dinu, Numinous Capital John Gutierrez, Ascenta Capital Dr. Emma Heckenberg, Solas BioVentures Patrick Jordan, NovaQuest Capital Management Tim Opler, Stifel Whether you're an investor looking for the next breakthrough, a corporate leader seeking innovative partners, or simply interested in the future of life sciences, the Startup Showcase offers a front-row seat to the companies poised to shape what's next. Join us August 25–26 at the Georgia Life Sciences Summit and discover the next generation of innovators driving Georgia's life sciences economy.
July 24, 2026
July 24, 2026, Atlanta, GA - Georgia Life Sciences applauds Congressman Rich McCormick (R-GA) for introducing the Biotechnology Diplomacy Leadership Act , legislation designed to strengthen America's leadership in biotechnology by establishing a senior biotechnology leadership position within the U.S. Department of State. As biotechnology continues to drive breakthroughs in healthcare, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and national security, the United States must remain a global leader in innovation while strengthening strategic partnerships with allies around the world. The proposed legislation recognizes biotechnology as a critical component of U.S. economic competitiveness and foreign policy and would help ensure that the federal government is well positioned to advance these priorities internationally. The legislation also reflects recommendations from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology , which called for a more coordinated national approach to advancing biotechnology and protecting U.S. leadership in this strategically important sector. "Georgia is home to one of the nation's fastest-growing life sciences ecosystems, and policies that strengthen America's global biotechnology leadership directly benefit innovators, researchers, manufacturers, and patients," said Maria Thacker Goethe, President & CEO of Georgia Life Sciences. "We appreciate Congressman McCormick's leadership in recognizing biotechnology as both an economic engine and a strategic national priority." Georgia Life Sciences looks forward to working with policymakers at both the federal and state levels to advance policies that foster innovation, strengthen the U.S. bioeconomy, and ensure America remains the global leader in biotechnology.
July 21, 2026
Georgia Life Sciences names Renee Martin, Ph.D., to lead its Teacher Training Initiative, advancing educator workforce development and Georgia's future life sciences talent pipeline.
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