(RALEIGH) -- A developer and manufacturer of topical pharmaceutical and skin care products, will expand its operations in Rowan County. Ei Inc. plans to create 119 jobs and invest $13.2 million during the next three years in Kannapolis.

Gov. Bev Perdue confirmed Ei is eligible for a $500,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund.

“North Carolina is known worldwide as a center for cutting-edge pharmaceutical and bioscience companies,” said Gov. Perdue. “Our state’s top-notch workforce and job training programs create a business climate where businesses can thrive in a global marketplace.”

“We believe that the City of Kannapolis is an excellent location to develop and manufacture products that will significantly improve lives," said Ei CEO Mike Kane.

Ei is headquartered in Kannapolis. The company currently employs more than 200 people in North Carolina.