An industry is normally defined as a group of companies with similar products or services. However, the biotechnology industry refers to those companies using advanced biological techniques to make a wide range of pharmaceutical, diagnostic, agricultural, chemical, environmental, and other products. Although biological processes have been used for over a thousand years to produce items like bread, wine and cheese, it was the scientific breakthroughs of 15 to 20 years ago that dramatically increased our ability to make new and better products. These advances gave birth to the biotechnology industry. Today, the U.S. leads the world with technical innovation and the new company formation in this emerging industry.

During the decade of the 1980's, Oregon began to recognize the role biotechnology could play in its economic development. The Center for Gene Research and Biotechnology was established at Oregon State University. Other institutions around the state also began biotechnology programs and over 20 biotechnology companies began operations.

OBA was formed in 1990 to promote the economic development of biotechnology in the state. OBA provides a continuing forum in which government agencies, business, and academia can work together to address the long term development issues facing biotechnology. The association accomplishes these goals by two means: first, by providing a range of programs and other services to its members, and, second, by organizing and leading the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Biotechnology Development in Oregon. The strategic plan:

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