The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded $175,000 to Exelus Inc. on September 30, 2025, under the Small Business Innovation Research Program (CFDA 10.212) to advance technology for converting lignocellulosic biomass into sustainable aviation jet fuel. The project supports the aviation industry's efforts to reduce carbon footprint and environmental impact by developing a practical alternative fuel source from renewable biomass feedstocks.
Exelus Inc., a minority-owned small disadvantaged business headquartered in Fairfield, New Jersey, will conduct the research and development work at its Fairfield facility. The project period runs through May 8, 2026. This Phase I award is intended to demonstrate technical feasibility of the biomass-to-jet-fuel conversion innovation and bring it closer to commercialization, positioning the company for potential Phase II funding if Phase I outcomes prove successful.