Celebrating a Milestone: NEMIC in Attendance as Gov. McKee Taps Neil Steinberg to Head New RI Life Sciences Hub
From left to right: RI House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi, RILSH Chair Neil Steinberg, Gov. Daniel McKee. (Photo: Twitter @RIHouseofReps)
In an exciting development for Rhode Island's burgeoning life sciences and biotechnology sector, the New England Medical Innovation Center (NEMIC) had the privilege of attending Governor Dan McKee’s press event on Friday, October 13, 2023 during which he appointed Neil Steinberg as board chair of the newly formed Rhode Island Life Sciences Hub.
This appointment marks a significant milestone in the state's journey toward becoming a center of excellence for innovation and research within the Life Sciences sector. The FY24 budget that the governor signed into law in June includes a line item carveout for a $45 million investment in the Life Sciences sector in the state. This carveout includes the development of wet lab incubator spaces, and also establishes the RI Life Sciences Hub Board as a quasi-public agency that will coordinate Life Sciences investments.
Neil Steinberg, a well-respected figure in the field, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. His previous leadership as the president and CEO of the Rhode Island Foundation - the state's largest community foundation - has positioned him as a trusted and effective leader with a strong track record of creating positive change in the region. His knowledge of community engagement and strategic planning will undoubtedly prove invaluable as he guides the Life Sciences Hub toward success.
Photo: Twitter @RIHouseofReps
NEMIC was proud to be in attendance at the intimate State House gathering, which took place in the full, standing-room-only State Room. NEMIC was among other Life Science sector leaders, such as RI Bio, as well as academic leaders from institutions including the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and Brown University.
As we all come together under the domain of the newly minted RILSH Board, the state will be well-poised to realize its ambitions and carve a niche for itself across the full spectrum of the Life Sciences. Rhode Island's dedication to innovation and research is evident through Neil Steinberg’s appointment, and we look forward to witnessing the positive impact that the Rhode Island Life Sciences Hub will have on our local community and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting journey toward medical innovation and progress!