Amgen Inc. has partnered with Los Angeles County to form a new organization aimed at advancing the region’s life sciences industry, the Thousand Oaks biotechnology company announced Sept. 20

BioLA will focus on creating jobs, driving economic development and accelerating startup activity.

See related story “County Backs New Bioscience Hub”

“Amgen was founded in 1980 and has grown into one of the largest independent biotechnology companies in the world. We are now part of a vibrant life sciences community in and around Los Angeles County that has all of the ingredients for sustained success, including world-class research institutions, experienced managerial talent, ambitious startups, incubator space and venture funding,” David Piacquad, senior vice president of business development, said in a statement. “Through our participation in BioLA, we look forward to further supporting the growth of this innovation ecosystem as we work in collaboration with the County of Los Angeles and other local entities.”

The organization plans to bring together companies, academic institutions, hospitals, investors, trade associations and public agencies to spur innovation in life sciences.

Ethan Varian is a reporter with sister publication San Fernando Valley Business Journal, where a version of this article first appeared.