Source:“Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2008,” United Nations Environmental Progamme (UNEP)
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Memphis Bioworks Foundation: Leading the way for a Regional Bioeconomy
AgBioworks is an initiative of Memphis Bioworks Foundation and BioDimensions dedicated to developing new agricultural technologies and processing, which will result in a strong bioeconomy in the Mississippi Delta. Bioeconomy refers to the sustainable use of agricultural and forestry products to supply abundant food, biofuels and biobased products that are increasing in global importance. The development of strategies to increase biodiversity, opportunities for farmers and increase green jobs has created new opportunities to impact workforce development and the economy.
Memphis Bioworks Foundation is a non-profit organization leading the collaboration between public, private, academic and government entities to accelerate the growth of the biosciences in the Memphis region. By leveraging the region’s competitive strengths, the Foundation continues to expand the infrastructure, educational opportunities and entrepreneurship needed to grow and impact the bioscience industries.
The Memphis Bioworks Foundation accomplishments have included:
- The launch and development of the $450 million UT-Baptist Research Park.
- The creation of the Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering, Tennessee’s first charter school with more than 800 students.
- The Launch of InMotion Musculoskeletal Institute, a non-profit orthopedic research laboratory.
- The creation of Innova, an early-stage investment fund supporting new bioscience ventures.
- The development of more than 30,000 s.f. of laboratory and office space for startup companies.
- The formation of Bioworks Place, a career Web site and professional networking site.
- The launch of Memphis Bioworks Business Association, a professional association working to advance the bioscience objectives through education, advocacy and professional growth.
BioDimensions, Memphis Bioworks Foundation’s partner in the AgBioworks initiative, is a consulting firm dedicated to helping create successful strategies to capitalize on the emerging bioeconomy. Together the two organizations are developing a strategic plan for the 98-county Mississippi Delta region in Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee. This strategy will help align public and private funding, while creating opportunities for farmers, improving the environment and increasing green jobs.
