Commercialization Partnerships for a Colloidal Barrier Mulch
Company Background:
AURI is a non-profit organization focused on assisting businesses with value-added opportunities as well as creating new products and process that utilize Minnesota and regionally grown commodities. Its mission is to foster economic long-term economic benefit for Minnesota through value-added agricultural products. The organization works on over 100 commercialization projects with businesses each year to advance applicable opportunities into the marketplace. AURI has a 30 year track record of working in the value-added food and agriculture space in the focus areas of biobased products, renewable energy, food and coproduct utilization.
Open Innovation Challenge:
Seeking partnerships with commercial entities interested in joint product development or exclusive licensing for a patent pending biobased colloidal barrier that could be used as a plastic mulch replacement or covering application for agricultural products.
Reason for Seeking External Innovation Partnership:
AURI is a non-profit entity and seeks a commercial partner to utilize a novel technology to apply in the commercial marketplace. Market research indicates a high interest in replacing plastic sheeting used for mulch application in organic and high value fruit and vegetable crops as well as for plastic coverings on hay, grain and silage. Currently biodegradable mulches and paper mulches offer alternative approaches, but at a higher price point. Additionally, organic certification for mulches is challenging and a biobased product could provide a new option.
AURI has conducted multiple years of product and application research. Most recently, field trials with the University of Minnesota related to this biobased product have occurred to demonstrate its potential. AURI has a patent pending status for this colloidal barrier.
Scope of Solution Space:
Interest in joint commercialization development agreements, licenses, acquisitions or other arrangements.
Innovation Solutions Not of Interest:
Entities that would shelf the product due to competitiveness concerns
Entities with no United States presence
Proposal Response Date Deadline:
August 28, 2020
Website Link:
www.auri.org and www.boldopenmn.com
Contact Information:
AURI / Bold Open – boldopen@auri.org
AURI’s mission is to foster long-term economic benefit for Minnesota through value-added agricultural products. Read more about our innovation strategy – and hear what our clients have to say about their experiences.