Eli Lilly and Company plans to invest more than $6 billion in a new manufacturing facility in Huntsville, Alabama. This next-generation synthetic medicine active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) facility, the third of four new U.S. sites Lilly plans to announce, will produce small molecule synthetic and peptide medicines.

Notably, the site will be among those that will manufacture orforglipron, Lilly’s first oral, small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist, which the company expects to submit to global regulatory agencies for obesity by the end of this year.

“Huntsville’s track record of science and innovation, supported by advanced manufacturing expertise and a skilled workforce, makes Alabama an ideal location for Lilly to expand domestic manufacturing capacity for next‑generation medicines,” said David A. Ricks, Lilly Chair and CEO. “Today’s investment continues the onshoring of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production, strengthening supply chain resilience and reliable access to medicines for patients in the U.S.”

The site was selected partly based on its proximity to the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, an established bioscience campus that supports workforce training and research. In addition to its workforce potential, the region offers ready access to utilities, transportation and favorable zoning and incentives.

Lilly plans to use machine learning, AI, digitally integrated monitoring systems and advanced data analytics to drive right-first-time execution. Digital automation will be embedded throughout the site to streamline operations and ensure a reliable supply of safe, high-quality medicines.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026. Completion is expected in 2032.