AURI now accepting submissions for Agricultural Innovation Partnership Program

The Agricultural Utilization Research Institute is now accepting submissions for the fourth installment of its Agricultural Innovation Partnership program.

According to the institute, the program is meant to help catalyze innovation, generate new ideas and support collaborative partnerships.

Submissions selected to the AIP program will receive match funding from AURI, and the information generated through the funded proposals will help entrepreneurs, businesses and agricultural processors explore opportunities and technologies in the areas of bio-based products, food and renewable energy .

Past research through the program has produced applied research studies, as well as guides and tools to help businesses utilizing the state’s agricultural products. Examples of past research can be found on the AURI website .

Submissions should answer specific, practical questions, or explore ideas and technologies having practical business applications. Accepted entries must follow the AIP Guidelines and align with program goals set forth by AURI.

AURI will consider proposals spanning the value-added agricultural sector, however proposals addressing the following topic areas are of particular interest:

1. Building and enhancing an indoor and outdoor food fish industry (aquaculture) in Minnesota.
2. Demystifying digital marketing and e-commerce for small food and/or ag businesses.
3. Creating a marketing guide for food businesses.
4. Conducting a food ecosystem benchmarking study.

“We are excited to receive submissions this year to create new partnerships through this program, as AURI is uniquely situated to collaborate with others to catalyze innovation," said Shannon Schlecht, executive director of AURI. "We strive to provide industry information that produces positive outcomes for Minnesota and the agricultural community.”
The deadline for submitting a proposal is July 31, and potential partners are encouraged to discuss initiative concepts with its staff prior to submission.

For more information about AURI and the AIP, along with the complete program criteria and instructions on how to submit a proposal visit auri.org .