Our story
Our story is one of dedication to patients and to scientific excellence. Over the course of the past three decades, we’ve evolved into a multi-platform cancer company. Today, we are innovating with both small molecules and biotherapeutics to build a diversified portfolio of cancer treatments that give patients hope for the future.
Building a legacy of excellence in oncology innovation
The Exelixis story began in 1994 when our prominent team of founding scientists set out to use model system genetics to systematize drug discovery. This vision ultimately resulted in our flagship commercial product, CABOMETYX® (cabozantinib), and has served as the foundation for our journey to discover and develop next-generation cancer treatments, driven by our relentless pursuit of results for the patients we serve. We’ve redefined the role of small molecule therapeutics – alone and in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors – working with clinicians to try to set new standards of care for multiple cancer types. These efforts, combined with our development and commercialization partnerships across the globe, extend our reach and impact to more patients.
Our name and journey
Exelixis is derived from Exelixi, the Greek word for evolution – an apt name reflecting the company’s growth from a functional genomics startup to a fully integrated biopharmaceutical company that has learned to adapt, survive and thrive.
An apt name
The founders of Exelixis envisioned using model systems genetics and genomics as a platform to unlock gene function, identifying and validating promising new drug targets. The company refined its focus as it moved into drug discovery.
A high-stakes bet
Exelixis focused on its most promising compound, subsequently gaining approval in several therapeutic areas, including one in combination with an immune checkpoint inhibitor.
A growing pipeline
Exelixis’ unique approach to drug discovery has led to an expanded pipeline of innovative small molecules and biotherapeutics, including antibody-drug conjugates – and expanded clinical development capabilities.
A focus on partnerships
Exelixis extends its impact through strategic collaborations across drug discovery, development and commercialization, building on our long history of productive partnerships to move our molecules and business forward.
A look ahead
The future of cancer care will be determined by the role of new chemical entities and combination regimens. Exelixis’ medicines are advancing the company’s mission to help cancer patients recover stronger and live longer.
Reinvesting to give more patients hope
Expanding for the future
To meet the needs of a multi-compound product portfolio and global business, we continue to scale our organizational and operational capacity across all functions. Over the past several years, we have expanded our corporate headquarters and enhanced our state-of-the-art laboratories at our Bay Area campus. We have established an East Coast presence to complement our extensive West Coast discovery and development capabilities. Our growth also includes expanding our experienced field-based team to ensure physicians and patients have access to our treatments. These commitments lay the groundwork for future growth, enabling us to deliver faster on behalf of patients on a global scale.