Federal Project Grant Award Summary

Rare Earth Genomics Texas, LLC received a $305,000 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I award from the National Science Foundation's Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (CFDA 47.084) to develop natural biopesticide formulations derived from plant terpenoids. The project, which commenced July 1, 2026 and concludes June 30, 2027, focuses on creating multi-component pest control products that combine terpenoid active ingredients in precise ratios with natural emulsifiers and surfactants. The deliverables include efficacy testing against difficult-to-control pests such as spider mites, formulation optimization for controlled delivery and enhanced pest mortality, and validation of rapid environmental degradation with minimal off-target toxicity.

This innovation addresses critical agricultural sustainability challenges by developing pesticide alternatives that reduce environmental contamination while maintaining effectiveness. The research directly supports the transition toward sustainable agriculture by reducing persistent chemical residues in soil and water supplies, thereby benefiting organic farmers, greenhouse vegetable producers, and consumers seeking pesticide-free food options. The project's technical focus involves identifying and testing synergistic combinations of terpenoid compounds while balancing isolate availability, economic viability, pest efficacy, and human safety to create commercially viable products suitable for market adoption.