We are creating a new pathway for ideas that can turn Colorado corn into new products and new markets. We’re starting with a Request for Concepts to identify the next wave of Colorado-grown demand.
The CCPC is inviting innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners to submit ideas—early-stage or established—that can turn corn into new products, new markets, and new revenue streams, with Colorado priorities in mind: input efficiency, resilient/sustainable production, and practical adoption on working farms.
What We’re Looking For:
New Uses projects go beyond traditional feed and fuel. We’re especially interested in concepts that position corn as a renewable, scalable feedstock for:
- Bio-based materials & plastics
- Low-carbon chemicals & industrial inputs
- Construction, packaging, and fiber applications
- Specialty ingredients, fermentation, and biomanufacturing
- Circular economy solutions that create value from co-products and waste streams
Key RFC Considerations:
- Clear market need and value (who buys it, and why corn)
- Credible technical plan and qualified team
- Practical path to pilot, scale, and commercialization
- Clear grower benefit (demand, profitability, risk, sustainability)
- Producer-friendly communication plan
- Preference for leveraged funding and collaborative partnerships (including other corn states)
How it works:
- Email Ian O’Banion iobanion@coloradocorn.com for a copy of the RFC template.
- Submit a short concept.
- The CCPC will review concepts and may request clarification or discussion.
- Selected concepts may be invited to submit a full proposal.
Contact us for more information:
For more information on the process, to receive a copy of the RFC template, or educational materials on New Uses for field corn please contact Ian O’Banion iobanion@coloradocorn.com Stewardship, Innovation and Industry Partnership Manager.