Expansion to create 500 new jobs and strengthen Virginia’s life sciences industry
RICHMOND, VA – (October 21, 2025) – Merck & Co., known as MSD outside the U.S. and Canada, announced plans to invest $3 billion to construct a 400,000-square-foot Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing in Rockingham County, Virginia. The expansion will create 500 new jobs and position Virginia as a leader in biopharmaceutical innovation.
The new facility, located at Merck’s existing Elkton site, will specialize in pharmaceutical ingredients and small-molecule manufacturing, supporting the company’s $70 billion national commitment to domestic research, development, and capital projects.
“Merck’s transformational $3 billion commitment to locate its Center of Excellence marks a giant leap forward for both America’s and Virginia’s life sciences sector,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “With hundreds of new jobs and cutting-edge capabilities coming to the Shenandoah Valley, we’re building a future where Virginians lead the way in developing lifesaving medicines for patients around the world.”
The project builds on Merck’s 85-year legacy in the Shenandoah Valley and reinforces the region’s role in advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing.
To support the expansion, Governor Youngkin approved a $5 million Virginia Investment Performance Grant and a $4 million Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund grant for Rockingham County. Workforce training and recruitment will be supported through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, ranked the nation’s top customized workforce training initiative.
“This expansion demonstrates Merck’s long-term commitment to Virginia and underscores the strength of our workforce, infrastructure, and pro-business environment,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura.
Merck’s investment cements Virginia’s position as one of the fastest-growing life sciences hubs in the U.S., driving new opportunities in manufacturing, innovation, and global health advancement.
