BioMADE has announced plans to build a new pilot-scale biomanufacturing facility near Ames, Iowa. This facility will be the third in BioMADE’s Pilot Plant Network. The project aims to strengthen U.S. biomanufacturing and support innovation in the bioeconomy.
The 15,000-square-foot facility will include large industrial fermenters up to 10,000 liters. It will have laboratory spaces, both dry and wet, for research and development. The focus will be on producing agricultural bioproducts, chemicals, food, and related products. The project has a total budget of $40 million. BioMADE is investing at least $20 million. Iowa State University and the Iowa Economic Development Authority match the remaining funds.
The new facility addresses a key challenge in U.S. bioindustrial manufacturing. Many companies lack access to pilot- and demonstration-scale infrastructure. As a result, they often go overseas for development, risking intellectual property loss. This facility will help domestic companies scale up their technologies more quickly and efficiently.
The Iowa plant will work alongside existing facilities, such as ISU’s Center for Crops Utilization Research. It will support companies in moving from laboratory research to commercial production. This infrastructure aims to accelerate technological development and increase industry competitiveness.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds welcomed the project, highlighting its potential to create jobs and leverage local agricultural resources. BioMADE’s CEO, Dr. Douglas Friedman, expressed enthusiasm about deepening engagement in Iowa and supporting U.S. biomanufacturing growth. Industry leaders also emphasized the importance of such facilities for scaling bioproducts and strengthening economic resilience.
The Iowa facility is expected to open in early 2028, contributing to the expansion of the U.S. bioindustrial sector.
