Seed Funding Opportunities
Technology Development/Technology Transfer Seed Funding
Current status: Open
Proposals are due by 11:59pm on February 15, 2026. Funding decisions will be announced by March 9, 2026, with projects beginning April 1, 2026.
The Iowa NSF EPSCoR Chemurgy 2.0 Technology Development/Technology Transfer Seed Fund supports high-impact research projects in technology development or technology transfer that advance Iowa’s leadership in biomanufacturing and sustainable materials innovation.
Up to $50,000 is available for one or two projects for 12-month research efforts that align with Chemurgy 2.0 goals and have strong potential for federal funding growth and economic impact in Iowa. A 20% cost share is required.
Learn more and view the full solicitation here.
For details or to discuss project ideas, contact Dr. Nigel Reuel.
Education and Workforce Development Seed Funding
Current status: Closed
The Iowa NSF EPSCoR Chemurgy 2.0 EWD Seed Program supports innovative education and workforce development projects that strengthen Iowa’s biomanufacturing talent pipeline. We are accepting rolling proposal submissions through January 30, 2026, at noon or until the round 2 funding has been awarded, whichever comes first. Submissions are reviewed as they are received.
Up to $15,000 is available per project in two priority areas:
Growing Future Biomanufacturing Professionals
Projects that engage high school through undergraduate students or those who influence student career choices.
Sharing Authentic Iowa Biomanufacturing Stories
Projects that collect and share real stories about biomanufacturing careers in Iowa. Eligible Iowa schools, nonprofits, and government organizations are encouraged to apply.
Learn more and view the full solicitation here.
For details or to discuss project ideas, contact Marcy Seavey.
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No.2242763