The Chemurgy 2.0 Education and Workforce Development (EWD) Seed Funding Program has officially launched its third round of seed funding, inviting proposals from Iowa-based institutions, schools, nonprofits, and government organizations. This funding opportunity supports high-impact educational projects that increase awareness of biomanufacturing and strengthen career pathways for Iowa students.
Round 3 prioritizes curriculum development projects for 9th–12th-grade students, focusing on aligning content with Iowa science standards and integrating authentic examples from Iowa-based biomanufacturing research. Priority will be given to proposals that connect directly to one of Chemurgy 2.0’s three technical focus areas: Plastics for Additive Manufacturing, Fibers for Flexible and Rigid Materials, and Proteins for Diagnostics and Therapeutics.
Proposals of up to $50,000 will be accepted on a rolling basis until available funds are awarded. The program anticipates funding two to three projects this round. All funded projects must be completed by July 31, 2027, and must include travel for at least one project representative to present results at the next Chemurgy 2.0 Annual Symposium, held at Iowa State University.
Eligible lead institutions include Iowa public or private colleges and universities, K–12 schools, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and state, county, or municipal government entities. Project teams must include Iowa scientists actively engaged in biomanufacturing research and curriculum development specialists. Final project outputs must be made freely available to Iowa high schools and the broader educational community.
For more information about proposal requirements, eligibility, and how to apply, visit the Chemurgy 2.0 EWD Seed Funding Program page or contact Marcy Seavey at marcene.seavey@uni.edu.
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No.2242763