Chemurgy 2.0 is building Iowa’s biomanufacturing future by advancing research, infrastructure, and workforce development focused on “meeting human needs with things that grow.” Supported by NSF EPSCoR, the initiative connects Iowa’s bioscience strengths with education and regional innovation across plastics, fibers, and proteins.
Through the Education & Workforce Development (EWD) Seed Program, Chemurgy 2.0 funds creative education and outreach projects that expand access to biomanufacturing experiences, especially in rural communities. Up to $100,000 will be awarded in 2025 across six to ten projects, with mini-grants of up to $5,000 and impact-level funding of up to $15,000 for multi-partner collaborations.
The committee has extended the deadline for Round 2 EWD Seed Funding proposals. Submissions are now accepted on a rolling basis through January 30, 2026, at noon, or until all Round 2 funds are awarded—whichever comes first. Proposals will be reviewed as they are received.
2025 Priority Areas
Growing Future Biomanufacturing Professionals
Supports programs that inspire and prepare Iowa’s next-generation workforce. Eligible projects may engage high school through undergraduate students, as well as educators, career counselors, and industry professionals who influence career paths. Examples include research programs, work-based learning pilots, field trips, or educator training events—all aligned with one or more Chemurgy 2.0 focus areas: Plastics for Additive Manufacturing (PAM), Fibers for Flexible and Rigid Materials (FRR), and Proteins for Diagnostics and Therapeutics (PDT).
Sharing Authentic Iowa Biomanufacturing Stories
Funds projects that highlight Iowa’s biomanufacturing community through storytelling and outreach. Proposals should gather and share real-life stories that showcase Iowa’s role in addressing human challenges through biobased innovation. Projects may produce videos, podcasts, lesson plans, or public events that engage audiences such as high school students, educators, and recruiters.
Proposal Support and Contact
Interested parties are encouraged to discuss ideas with Marcy Seavey, EWD Seed Program chair, at marcene.seavey@uni.edu.
View the full solicitation at https://stem.uni.edu/chemurgy-20-ewd-seed-funding-program-solicitation.
All associated promotional materials are included below for those who wish to share the program with colleagues, educators, or their extended networks. Feel free to help us spread the word about this opportunity!
EWD Seed Funding Round 2 flyer.pdf
Growing Future Biomanufacturing Professionals
Sharing Authentic Iowa Biomanufacturing Stories
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No.2242763