New Uses for field Corn: Request for Concepts (RFC)

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:

1. Email Ian O'Banion [email protected] for a copy of the RFC template.
2. Submit a short concept.
3. The CCPC will review concepts and may request clarification or discussion.
4. 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 [email protected] Stewardship, Innovation and Industry Partnership Manager.