SPECIAL REPORT: Greater Baltimore Fights COVID-19
The dual health and economic challenges posed by COVID-19 have brought business to a standstill in many places. Greater Baltimore, however, has faced these challenges head on. World-class doctors and scientists at the Region's renowned hospitals & research institutions are leading the development of innovative treatments and vaccine candidates for the virus, while our public health scholars have served as the trusted source for vital information to millions. Bio-tech companies are prepared to manufacturer tens of millions of vaccine doses right here in the Region. All told, the pandemic has highlighted Greater Baltimore's diverse, resilient economy, with booming demand for the Region's e-commerce, digital health, manufacturing, and cybersecurity businesses.
Decades of Leadership in Public Health Research, Catalyzing Private Sector Innovation
In the early stage of the pandemic, Greater Baltimore's scientists sprang into action. The University of Maryland Baltimore's Center for Vaccine Development & Global Health, home to "some of the most experienced vaccine researchers in the country," became first to administer a human trial of a coronavirus vaccine in the U.S. (Rolling Stone, 2020). Meanwhile, Johns Hopkins University & Medicine, the leading source for coronavirus data , led ground-breaking research into plasma-based therapies.
Long before COVID-19, these healthcare assets attracted world-class vaccine manufacturers to the Region. Emergent BioSolutions has signed four COVID deals and expanded its Bayview location - a federal Center for Innovation in Advanced Development and Manufacturing (CIADM) - where it will manufacture tens of millions of vaccines. Among those is the candidate from Montgomery County-based Novovax. Meanwhile, Catalent - with operations at the UM BioPark and BWI Business Park - has signed on with eight candidates.
Greater Baltimore's Economy: Diversified & Resilient Amidst the Challenge of COVID-19
Logistics & E-Commerce
The Region's e-commerce growth has only accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Record leasing has resulted from Greater Baltimore's prime location and unmatched port, airport, road, and rail infrastructure. Learn More.
Manufacturing
Maryland's manufacturers have stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic, producing life-saving personal protective equipment and ensuring continued access to vital goods through localized production. Learn More.
Digital Health
Greater Baltimore's growing digital health companies, led by emocha, b.Well Connected Health, BurnAlong, and others, took in massive investments in 2020. These companies are reshaping the future of healthcare. Learn More.
Cybersecurity
The Region's status as a cyber hub - benefitting from state's #1-ranked cyber workforce - has taken on heightened importance during the COVID pandemic. This has led to significant investment across the Region. Learn More.