Primient and Synonym are entering into a collaboration to establish a cutting-edge “Pilot Research Operations Optimization Facility” (iPROOF) at Primient’s Decatur, Illinois campus. This site already possesses initial fermentation capabilities, making it an ideal location for expansion.
The two entities will upgrade the existing infrastructure and significantly increase the fermentation capacity to over 35,000 liters. According to a joint press release, this facility is designed to offer comprehensive services for biotech startups, enabling them to effectively test and launch their biotech product concepts. The iPROOF facility is slated to become operational in early 2026.
Eric Lee, Director of Business Development, Fermentation at Primient, highlighted Decatur’s strategic advantages in a statement to FoodNavigator-USA: “Decatur emerged as the optimal location for this partnership due to several compelling factors. Our existing fermentation assets and available space for expansion, coupled with on-site expertise in engineering and development, are crucial. Furthermore, Decatur’s location in the heart of corn country ensures access to high-quality feedstock. The momentum generated by the iFAB Tech Hub consortium further solidifies Central Illinois’s position as a potential epicenter for biomanufacturing in the US.”
Synonym contributes to this alliance with its suite of digital tools, Capacitor and Scaler, designed to streamline the commercialization of biotech-derived products. These online platforms will empower companies utilizing the iPROOF facility with valuable insights for scaling their biotech innovations. Scaler offers life-cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis, enabling biotech firms to estimate profit margins and necessary capital investments. Capacitor serves as a comprehensive directory of available manufacturing capacities.
Jim Stutelberg, CEO of Primient, expressed enthusiasm about the venture: “We recognize the transformative potential of bio-based products and solutions, and we possess a proven track record in scaling operations. Our collaboration with Synonym will be instrumental in assisting companies aiming to overcome the bio-based barrier. By providing a scalable, data-driven proving ground with robust support, we are making a significant difference. We are excited to contribute to this project and anticipate the positive impact we can achieve together.”
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Plays Key Role in Biotech Hub Development
The iPROOF initiative is supported by a Tech Hubs grant awarded to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s iFAB Tech Hub, funded by the US Department of Commerce and Economic Development Administration. This grant underscores the region’s growing importance in the biotech sector.
The specific funding allocation from the US Department of Commerce and Economic Development Administration for the iPROOF project and other iFAB Tech Hub initiatives is expected to be determined this fall, following site evaluations, according to Lee. The remaining financial requirements for the iPROOF project will then be jointly addressed by Primient and Synonym.
The iFAB Tech Hub has secured $51 million to bolster fermentation capabilities within the region, focusing on converting corn feedstock into alternative proteins, food and beverage ingredients, and a range of bio-derived materials. This substantial investment highlights the region’s commitment to advancing biomanufacturing.
In the previous month, the US Department of Commerce and Economic Development Administration announced $504 million in funding for twelve Tech Hubs across the nation. This broader initiative, detailed in a White House statement, aims to foster the development of biotechnology, AI, and other critical technological advancements throughout the United States. This partnership between Primient and Synonym is a key element in realizing this national vision.
