Dave, I updated what I could - the next section of this page is the new colour block and images below each other - please see what's possible  - if the layout does not currently exist for DSI, we can do what is available and I can let them know we can look at design for phase 2

https://docs.google.com/document/d/16lxTrR3jQFKaJClxmpV3cZL1pCUSpaGDE46oCjq401M/edit?tab=t.0

Screenshot 2025-03-04 at 10.03.18.png 237 KB • Download

I have not added Funding opportunities in here - some of the content was removed, not sure if it was them or if we did all the content in the summary block. Either way, there's a funding section that needs to be added below this section "Bioeconomy engine "

Seed Grant Program: The Centers’ seed grant program aims to accelerate collaborative and translational research in biotechnology and biomanufacturing. This program is prioritizing collaborative team projects that will lead to extramural funding and demonstrate a clear impact for Minnesota through workforce efforts, outreach and engagement with businesses, companies, start-ups and non-profit entities in the State.

Our first call for seed grant proposals focused on innovations and challenges for biotechnology developments and biomanufacturing for next generation biofuels, carbon storage, capture and conversion as well as recycling and upcycling of waste and feedstock byproducts. All of the projects must consider impact and relevance for Minnesota in terms of resources (e.g. feedstocks) and infrastructure.

Six projects (insert link) were selected through a competitive review process for seed funding. New calls for proposals with focus areas relevant for the development of Minnesota’s bioeconomy  will be issued annually. A new call for proposals will be announced soon.

Biotechnology Infrastructure

The University of Minnesota is extremely well positioned to develop innovative ideas into large-scale biomanufacturing because of its deep biotechnology expertise  and investments made by the University to upgrade its biotechnology manufacturing capabilities on the St. Paul campus. The St. Paul campus also co-locates bio-based sciences and engineering focused on biosystems, including agriculture, food and environmental applications. (St. Paul campus image here)

For over 40 years, the Biotechnology Institute (insert link)  has served as a hub for biotechnology research at the University of Minnesota. It is jointly funded by the College of Science and Engineering and the College of Biological Sciences and brings together over 40 research groups from 13 departments and four colleges. (some image here that represent the BioTech Institute)

The Biotechnology Resource Center (insert link) of the Biotechnology Institute provides pilot plant biomanufacturing capabilities to internal and external clients. Investments in a new building on the St. Paul campus with upgraded equipment are quadrupling its capabilities.