CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci and the U.S. Economic Development Administration announced approximately $51 million for the Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Tech Hub.

“I am thrilled to see the iFAB Tech Hub receive this funding,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This investment emphasizes the importance of promoting cutting-edge research and development in our state. We are paving the way for projects and services that will benefit our communities and economy for generations to come.”

The iFAB Tech Hub, led by the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Labortory at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, unites over 30 partners from academia, industry and government in Central Illinois to meet the growing demand for fermentation in biomanufacturing. Funding for the hub will be allocated through a Phase 2 Implementation grant to support infrastructure development and industry partnerships, positioning Illinois as a leader in precision fermentation.

“We are solidifying our state’s position as a leader in the tech industry, driving economic growth and creating high-quality jobs for residents,” Faraci said. “This funding marks a significant milestone in our state’s journey toward biofermentation and biomanufacturing excellence.”

To learn more about the iFAB tech hub or this funding, visit UIUC’s website.