Bio Nebraska, in partnership with the Nebraska Corn Board, has released a new white paper examining Nebraska’s opportunity to strengthen and expand its bioeconomy.
Today, Bio Nebraska released “Building Nebraska’s Bioeconomy: Key Findings and a Strategic Path Forward.” The white paper presents the results of an assessment commissioned by Bio Nebraska in early 2026 to answer a key question: Does Nebraska need an industrial biomanufacturing pilot facility?
The assessment found that Nebraska does not currently need a general industrial biomanufacturing pilot facility. Existing national capacity is currently underutilized, with additional facilities coming online, creating significant financial and utilization risks for a new statewide facility.
Instead, the research points to opportunities that could position Nebraska for long-term growth.
“This assessment gives Nebraska an opportunity to be strategic about how we grow our bioeconomy,” said Rob Owen, executive director of Bio Nebraska. “We can build on the assets we already have, strengthen our relationships with industry and develop a coordinated strategy that puts Nebraska in a stronger position to compete for future investment.”
The assessment identified a biologicals-focused pilot facility as an opportunity that merits further study.
It also identified several assets in Nebraska that could support such an effort, including established biopharmaceutical and animal health companies, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s (UNL) Biological Process Development Facility and the National Strategic Research Institute. Additional research is needed to validate demand, determine the appropriate scale and evaluate a potential business model.
Building on Nebraska’s Strengths
The assessment identifies several actions Nebraska can take now to strengthen its bioeconomy, including:
- Developing a statewide industrial biotechnology strategy
- Expanding partnerships with major employers, such as ADM, Cargill and Green Plains
- Re-engaging UNL’s Industrial Agricultural Products Center
- Building relationships with existing pilot facilities to attract companies and investment
- Strengthening workforce development
- Exploring Opportunity Zone designations for biomanufacturing development
Nebraska’s agricultural resources, renewable energy potential and existing bioscience and manufacturing assets provide a strong foundation for future growth. The assessment also recommends additional work to understand university commercialization opportunities and evaluate tax and incentive policies that can help Nebraska compete for investment.
“Nebraska has many of the ingredients needed to be a leader in the bioeconomy,” Owen said. “Our focus now should be on bringing those assets together, identifying where the greatest opportunities exist and making smart investments that create lasting economic impact for the state.”