CHAMPAIGN: Budzinski, Deputy Governor Manar Host Fireside Chat on Biomanufacturing 

CHAMPAIGN, IL — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Deputy Governor Andy Manar held a fireside chat at Parkland College, focused on Illinois’ national leadership in biomanufacturing. They discussed the benefits of biomanufacturing for the regional economy, the importance of federal investments in biomanufacturing research, and the future of the iFAB Tech Hub located in Budzinski’s district. The event was part of the 7th Annual Champaign-Urbana Ag Tech Week.

“I was excited to join Deputy Governor Manar for a timely discussion about the future of biomanufacturing in Illinois,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “As farmers struggle with rising costs and shrinking export markets, we need an all-of-the-above approach to strengthen our rural economies – which includes investing in the innovation happening right here at the iFAB Tech Hub. I’ve been proud to champion federal funding for this groundbreaking research and look forward to continuing to work to solidify Central and Southern Illinois as America’s preeminent ag-tech corridor.”

“I was grateful to join Congresswoman Budzinski in Champaign for this important discussion about the future of biomanufacturing and the opportunities it creates for Illinois,” said Deputy Governor Andy Manar. “Under Governor Pritzker’s leadership, Illinois has made major investments in research, workforce development, and innovation to strengthen our bioeconomy and support new markets for our agricultural producers. With partners like the University of Illinois and the iFAB Tech Hub, Illinois is helping lead the nation in developing the next generation of bio-based products while creating good-paying jobs and economic growth across our state.”

Since taking office, Budzinski has been a champion for biomanufacturing to create new markets for Illinois farmers, grow jobs, and invest in innovation. In 2024, she secured the designation of the University of Illinois’ iFAB as one of 31 national Tech Hubs, authorized by the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act. She has also been proud to advocate for and ultimately secure $51 million in federal funding for the institution which aims to boost domestic biomanufacturing capacity and improve the development and deployment of new bio-based products. 

Budzinski is a member of the BIOTech Caucus in Congress, which is working to strengthen America’s leadership in biotechnology and the broader bioeconomy. She has also introduced the AgBIO Act, a bipartisan bill that supports the advanced biofuel economy and helps expand opportunities for agricultural feedstocks in the bioeconomy. 

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