In the life sciences sector, the journey from an emerging startup to a full-scale growth company is not just about science, funding or talent. It’s about infrastructure — the physical foundation that enables innovation, compliance, speed and scale. For a company charting that ascent, infrastructure must evolve in sync with the business model, operational maturity and strategic ambition.
Below, we trace three key stages-startup, growth, scale-up and highlight how infrastructure needs differ across them.
In the beginning, speed defines survival. Startups must validate ideas, generate early data, and reach proof-of-concept faster than competitors—all while operating on limited budgets. This stage demands infrastructure that lets teams move quickly without heavy capital commitments. Modular labs, leasing of labs over greenfield or brownfield investments, and shared equipment hubs accelerate setup time, allowing scientists to start experiments within days, not months at a lower cost.
The global demand for flexible labs is rising precisely because early-stage biotech firms prioritise rapid execution. Being located inside a life sciences ecosystem further boosts velocity by providing access to shared facilities, mentors, and talent—all essential for compressing the journey from concept to validation.
Once a startup demonstrates commercial potential, infrastructure priorities shift from flexibility to reliability. The company begins scaling assays, expanding manufacturing capability, and entering regulated environments. That means validated clean rooms, robust HVAC systems, and compliant waste-management processes become non-negotiable.
Capital discipline is another defining factor. According to McKinsey, life sciences companies announced over US$150 billion in new capital projects by 2030, yet many struggle to deliver them on schedule. The report warns that a six-month project delay can erode up to US$750 million in product value—a stark reminder that efficient infrastructure delivery is now a competitive advantage. In short, the growth stage is where infrastructure transforms from a workspace into a strategic enabler—linking compliance, data, and performance under one roof.
When a company reaches scale, infrastructure must support complexity and resilience. It’s no longer about one facility—it’s about an interconnected network that can deliver globally, sustainably, and at speed. There has been rise in demand for advanced modalities such as cell and gene therapies, requiring highly flexible and automated facilities.
Sustainability and ESG alignment are also now inseparable from scale. As companies expand, investors, partners, and regulators are watching how they manage energy use, emissions, and material efficiency. Circular operations and LEED- or EDGE-certified campuses are fast becoming industry benchmarks.
A mismatch between a company’s maturity and its infrastructure can slow everything—from funding to product timelines. A start-up locked into an oversized facility drains resources, while a growing company in a retrofit lab risks compliance lapses and inefficiency. Designing infrastructure that evolves with business needs helps reduce these friction points. Start-ups gain speed. Growth-stage companies gain reliability. Scale-ups gain efficiency and resilience.
At Rx Propellant, we recognize that the right infrastructure is central to scientific and business growth. From early-stage R&D setups to large-scale innovation and manufacturing campuses, we create environments that enable life sciences companies to scale with confidence. Our campuses are IFC EDGE Advanced and LEED Certified, reflecting our focus on sustainability, flexibility, and long-term value creation. As your company evolves from startup to scale-up, we’re here to build the infrastructure that grows with you.
