Valion Bio (NASDAQ: VBIO) has highlighted the capabilities of its wholly owned contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), Velocity Bioworks. Velocity is part of Valion’s own domestic biologics supply chain, supporting the company’s development strategy for its lead candidate, Entolimod, which is being developed as a potential medical countermeasure for Acute Radiation Syndrome.
According to Valion, Velocity can support biotechnology companies evaluating U.S.-based manufacturing for early-phase biologics programs. The announcement comes amid increased industry focus on domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing following implementation of the new Section 232 pharmaceutical tariff framework. It imposes tariffs of up to 100% on certain imported patented pharmaceuticals and associated pharmaceutical ingredients, with lower rates or exemptions based on product, origin, and other applicable criteria. The framework took effect for most companies on September 29, 2026.
In a statement, Dean Zikria, interim CEO of Valion, commented, “Biotechnology companies may benefit from establishing U.S.-based manufacturing early in development as part of a longer-term domestic supply-chain strategy. Doing so can help avoid a more complex process transfer closer to launch. Velocity Bioworks is designed to provide clinical sponsors with access to process development, analytical services, and GMP drug substance manufacturing for early clinical development at its integrated San Antonio campus. We welcome discussions with potential partners about how Velocity can support their development and manufacturing needs.”
Velocity’s microbial manufacturing facility is equipped for GMP drug substance manufacturing at scales up to 200 liters. Velocity also maintains GMP mammalian manufacturing capabilities to support biologics programs through early clinical development. Phase-appropriate process and analytical development services are intended to enable technology transfer, product characterization, stability, and comparability activities across development and clinical manufacturing programs.
Velocity’s San Antonio manufacturing site provides convenient access to San Antonio International Airport and the region’s transportation and logistics infrastructure.
Mr. Zikria added, “As a biopharmaceutical company developing our own biologic drug candidates, including Entolimod, Valion understands the importance of aligning domestic manufacturing capabilities with development objectives. Velocity Bioworks reflects that commitment, with capabilities designed to support both our internal programs and external partners.”
