In 1997, the Arizona BioIndustry Association (ABA), a not-for-profit, 501 (c) 6 trade association, was founded to promote the growth of the bioscience industries in Arizona.

Instrumental were Bob Case and Michael Berens, Ph.D. who gathered individuals from local biotech companies in Arizona with the goal of creating an organization to support local biotech companies. Following discussions with representatives throughout the state, the Arizona Bioindustry Cluster was established.