Round Rock Chamber Explores Life Sciences Ecosystem in Philadelphia

The Round Rock Chamber recently traveled to Philadelphia, PA with a delegation of city, community and education leaders to gain insights into building a robust life sciences ecosystem while also showcasing Round Rock’s potential to corporate site selection professionals. The delegation included the following:

• Shreek Mandayam, Vice President for Research, Texas State University
• Julie Lessiter, Vice President of Round Rock Campus- Texas State University
• Writ Baese, President, Hill Country Payroll and Momentum Chair
• Bradley Dushkin, Director of Planning & Development – City of Round Rock
• Jordan Robinson, President & CEO, Round Rock Chamber
• Danielle Morrissey, Director of Business Attraction

Philadelphia, renowned for its thriving life sciences sector, proved to be an ideal location for Round Rock Chamber’s fact-finding and marketing mission. The delegation sought to understand the intricacies of fostering a successful life sciences ecosystem—a critical sector with the potential to drive innovation, create high-quality jobs and spur economic growth.

One of the key objectives of the visit was to engage with industry experts, academic institutions, and research centers that have played pivotal roles in establishing Philadelphia as a life sciences hub. By fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange, Round Rock Chamber aimed to identify best practices, potential challenges, and innovative strategies that could be applied as the city aspires to build its own ecosystem.

The delegation also seized the opportunity to inform corporate site selection professionals about the benefits of doing business in Round Rock. Central Texas has long been an attractive destination for businesses due to its business-friendly environment, low taxes and skilled workforce. This trip allowed the delegation an opportunity to inform these site selection professionals about Round Rock’s strategic mission and benefits of doing business in the city.

The Round Rock Chamber’s strategic initiative aligns with the city’s commitment to diversifying its economy and positioning itself as a hub for innovation and technology. By focusing on the life sciences sector, Round Rock aims to attract businesses that align with the city’s vision for sustainable growth and development.

This trip is an example of the Chamber’s efforts to attract new business and market the city as the best place to do business in Central Texas.