Kalexsyn, Inc., founded by former Pharmacia scientists David Zimmermann and Robert Gadwood in 2003, broke ground on its headquarters in March 2007. Located between Thermo-Fisher Scientific and the WMU soccer complex on the southeast corner of Western Michigan University’s Business Technology and Research Park (BTR Park), Kalexsyn will be housed in a new single-story, 20,000 sq. ft. facility to support its current operation and provide additional space for future growth.  The facility features state-of-the-art mechanical and technology systems to accommodate the specialized requirements of the industry. The building sits on a three-acre site previously owned by Western Michigan University in the BTR Park, which is now owned by Rockford Development Group.

Kalexsyn has been operating in a 7,000 sq. ft. space within the Southwest Michigan Innovation Center. This facility, also located in the BTR Park, is life science center for emerging life sciences and technology firms. At the time of the firm’s incorporation, they identified a need to eventually expand beyond the Innovation Center. Kalexsyn reached capacity in 2007 with 15 full-time chemists on staff. Kalexsyn will be the third company to graduate from the Innovation Center and the first to re-invest in the BTR Park with a new facility.

The medicinal chemistry contract research firm signed a $4.5 million contract with Rockford Companies to construct the building.

Rockford Companies worked with Kalexsyn to structure a deal that would not only leave Kalexsyn with a state-of-the-art facility in the BTR Park, but allow them to set up a long-term lease and continue to grow in the Kalamazoo area. The intent was to create a partnership with Kalexsyn that would allow them to expand their operation, continue research and be able work and grow in a customized space.