In Iowa, BioMADE announced its plans to establish and operate a new pilot-scale bioindustrial manufacturing facility near Ames. The 15,000 sq. ft. multi-user facility will include up to 10,000-liter industrial fermenters, dry and wet lab space, and downstream processing capabilities centered around the development of agricultural bioproducts, chemicals, and food.
At a total project value of $40 million, BioMADE has committed at least $20 million, which will be matched by up to $10 million in cost-share contributions from ISU and $10 million in funding from IEDA’s Strategic Infrastructure Program.
BioMADE—short for Bioindustrial Manufacturing and Design Ecosystem—is a U.S. government-backed initiative focused on advancing bioindustrial manufacturing. It was established in October 2020 and officially launched in April 2021 as part of the Manufacturing USA® network, with sponsorship from the U.S. Department of Defense.
The Ames project is third facility in BioMADE’s Pilot Plant Network, following announcements of major investments in Minnesota and California. The network of bioindustrial manufacturing facilities will establish the U.S. as a leader in the global bioeconomy, secure domestic supply chains for needed products with defense and commercial applications, and boost rural economic development.