Federal Cooperative Agreement Summary

Asimica, Inc. received a $1.25 million Cooperative Agreement from the National Science Foundation (NSF) under the Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP) program (CFDA 47.084) on June 15, 2026, with completion targeted for May 31, 2028. The award supports Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) development of microbial stem cell technology for high-yield terpene biomanufacturing. Asimica will develop improved biomanufacturing techniques that reduce costs and enhance yields through a genetic technology platform designed to address product cytotoxicity limitations in microbial biofermentation, thereby enabling substantially higher biofermentation productivity in commercial applications.

The research and development activities focus on three primary deliverables: validation of the technology in bench-top bioreactors, expansion of the terpenoid product portfolio to address diverse industrial applications, and scale-up to 300-liter production capability. The initial target market encompasses flavors and fragrances used across beverages, dairy, bakery, confectionery, consumer products, and fine fragrances sectors, representing a $30.9 billion market in 2024 with projected growth to $50.7 billion by 2033. Performed in Laramie, Wyoming, this initiative supports NSF TIP's mission to advance innovation addressing national challenges while contributing to workforce development and biotech industry competitiveness in the High Plains region.