# SBIR Phase II: Microbial Stem Cell Technology for High-Yield Terpene Biomanufacturing

> **NSF 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · ASIMICA LLC (WY) · $1,250,000

## Abstract

The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project will be to develop improved biomanufacturing techniques that reduce costs and enhance yields. This microbial stem cell technology is a platform expected to significantly increase bioreactor productivity, bringing transformative advancements to multiple markets. The first target market, flavors and fragrances, find application in several industries such as beverages, savory and snacks, dairy products, bakery, confectionery, consumer products, and fine fragrances. This market is estimated to be $30.9B in 2024 and is projected to reach $50.7B by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.82%. Widespread implementation of this platform across diverse industrial segments would strengthen supply chain resilience and boost US economic competitiveness. Additionally, it would create opportunities for workforce development, offer unique training programs for students, and significantly contribute to establishing a skilled biotech workforce in Wyoming and the High Plains region.  

The proposed project provides a solution to the common problem of product cytotoxicity in microbial biofermentations. Microbial biofermentation has generated serious interest among industrial producers of flavors and fragrances for efficient biofermentative methods for making their products, yet they are deterred by the limitations of conventional biomanufacturing. The proposed project intends to

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2528068
- **Awardee organization:** ASIMICA LLC (WY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** XGBAQ1QEXXU1
- **PI:** Nikolai Mushnikov
- **Primary program:** 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Synthetic biology, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $1,250,000
- **Funds obligated:** $1,250,000
- **Transaction type:** Cooperative Agreement
- **Period:** 06/15/2026 → 05/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2528068

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2528068, SBIR Phase II: Microbial Stem Cell Technology for High-Yield Terpene Biomanufacturing. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2528068. Licensed CC0.

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