The Massachusetts Life Sciences is accepting applications for the next round of the Job Creation Tax Incentive program.

Now in its seventh round, the program offers tax incentives to encourage the growth of companies engaged in life sciences research and development, commercialization and manufacturing in Massachusetts.  Through this year’s program, the MLSC will seek to leverage the life sciences assets that are now in place around the state, and promote growth throughout Massachusetts.  The agency is actively encouraging applications from companies located outside Greater Boston.

The program addresses the significant capital associated with the life sciences R&D cycle and the high costs of translating research into commercially viable products. To qualify, companies must receive certification from the MLSC and must demonstrate both the scientific and economic merit of their expansion plans.

Companies receiving incentives must commit to the creation and retention of a specific number of net new jobs for a 5-year period.

As of June 30, the program was credited with creating or gaining commitments for more than 4,500 jobs.

Travis McCready, president & CEO of the MLSC, said the program has played a major role in encouraging companies such as GE Healthcare, LeMaitre Vascular, Shire and Baxalta to grow in Massachusetts.

“We want to ensure that this growth is well distributed across the state, and with that in mind we are actively encouraging companies located outside of Greater Boston to apply to this year’s program,” McCready said in a statement.

Applications are due by noon on Feb. 25 and can be submitted online via www.masslifesciences.com.  Information sessions for potential applicants will be held in the coming weeks in various locations around the state.  Dates and locations are listed on the Center’s website.

The MLSC is responsible for implementing the state’s 10-year, $1-billion life science initiative.