BIRMINGHAM, Ala.- A project led by researchers from the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Auburn University and the University of Tennessee has been named as a finalist in a national competition sponsored by the National Science Foundation.
The BRIDGES Engine was named one of just 15 finalists from more than 300 entries, NSF announced recently.
BRIDGES – short for Biomanufacturing Rural Innovation Driving Grasses for Economic Sustainability – works to transform low productivity farmland across Alabama, Tennessee and neighboring states into sources of compostable packaging, automotive components and construction materials. That could improve the economy in rural communities.
“Moving forward to the final round is a recognition of the dedication and innovation of the team behind BRIDGES, a coalition of more than 80 partners across industry, academia and communities,” said Sam Jackson, HudsonAlpha’s director for the project.
The BRIDGES team, which includes Auburn University and the University of Tennessee as co-leads, advanced after a semifinal interview with NSF reviewers. Other finalists cover a wide range of technologies, from quantum computing to energy-grid security.
Auburn University research and economic development officer Steve Taylor called the effort “a tremendous opportunity” to link agriculture and manufacturing advances, while Keith Carver, officer for the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture said the initiative reflects the outreach mission of land-grant universities.
The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program is designed to link research with job growth and keep the United States competitive in key industries. Earlier projects have drawn more than $1 billion in private and public investments in addition to $135 million in federal support.
During the last phase of the competition, NSF will make a two-day site visit to assess BRIDGES’ plans for research, economic impact and community support.
Final Innovation Engine award winners are expected to be announced in 2026.