Officials with the N.C. Biotechnology Center are in discussions with at least 20 companies that are considering expansion in this state.

"We've got a lot of things in the pipeline" and activity among prospects is picking up, said CEO Norris Tolson, in a phone interview. "Some are very early stage. We don't have anyone who's ready to announce next week."

The private, nonprofit Biotech Center is working on some potential economic development deals with the N.C. Commerce Department, projects that would likely involve tax breaks or other financial incentives from the state.

But others may skip such aid because incentives require specific hiring  and investment targets.

"Companies are being very pragmatic about what they're trying to do," Tolson said. "Sure, if they can nail down specific numbers, they would love to have incentives."

A new addition at the N.C. Biotechnology Center will recognize former Gov. Jim Hunt, who helped establish the industry's roots in the state.

Officials will dedicate the 20,000 square-foot James B. Hunt Jr. Leadership Annex at a ceremony on Tuesday afternoon.

"With Gov. Hunt's early vision, we were able to build a strong foundation for biotechnology to thrive," said Biotech Center CEO Norris Tolson, who served as commerce and transportation secretary under Hunt, in a prepared statement.

The $10.1 million expansion will provide meeting space and more at the state-supported center's headquarters in Research Triangle Park.

North Carolina's biotech industry includes about 530 companies that employ 57,000 people.