DoD to fund new Manufacturing Innovation Institute

BioIndustrial Manufacturing and Design Ecosystem (BioMADE) has secured an $87 million Department of Defense (DoD) pact for a new Manufacturing Innovation Institute (MII).

The seven-year award to the University of Minnesota-based firm will collaborate with public and private entities to advance sustainable and reliable bioindustrial manufacturing technologies.

“The Department of Defense is committed to promoting U.S. biotechnology innovation and securing America’s bioindustrial base,” Michael Kratsios, acting Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, said. “We are pleased to work with new partners to accelerate the Department’s biotechnology modernization and the development of this field, which is so critical to our nation’s future security and prosperity.”

The DoD funding is slated to be combined with over $187 million in non-federal cost-share from 31 companies, as well as 57 colleges and universities, six nonprofits, and two venture capital groups across 31 states.

The work scope will examine and advance industry-wide standards, tools, and measurements; mature foundational technologies; foster a resilient bioindustrial manufacturing ecosystem; advance education and workforce development; and support the establishment and growth of supply chain intermediaries that are essential for a robust domestic bioeconomy.

The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E) is responsible for research, development, and prototyping activities across DoD.