Ill. — The Illinois Small Business Development Center’s International Trade Center at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is exploring collaboration opportunities with the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center to strengthen international market opportunities for agribusinesses, biofuel innovators and agricultural technology companies across the region
In early May, the organizations held a discussion that reflected a shared interest in supporting innovation, commercialization and global competitiveness within Illinois’ growing bioeconomy sector
As part of the ITC’s 2026 strategic focus on agriculture and food-related industries, the center is seeking to build stronger partnerships with organizations that are advancing research, sustainability and industrial innovation throughout southwestern Illinois and beyond
“NCERC plays a critical role in supporting research and innovation in the biofuels and bioproducts industry,” said Schneidine Louis, Illinois SBDC International Trade Center director
“Through this collaboration, we hope to help connect companies and technologies within this ecosystem to international market opportunities, export re
Global demand for renewable energy, sustainable fuels and agricultural innovation continues to grow as countries invest in cleaner energy solutions and biofuel infrastructure
This creates opportunities for Illinois companies involved in ethanol technologies, agricultural processing, manufacturing and sustainability-driven innovation
“NCERC will be delighted to assist the Illinois SBDC International Trade Center at SIUE in their mission to serve the small businesses and the startup ecosystem,” said Praveen Vadlani, NCERC executive director
“The unique facilities and knowledge-driven capabilities of the NCERC is setup to de-risk and validate ag-derived bioproducts geared towards exports and international markets.”
The ITC provides confidential export assistance to small and medium-sized businesses throughout southwestern Illinois at no cost. Services include export counseling, market research, trade data analysis, export compliance guidance and access to state and federal export re
NCERC, located at SIUE, is recognized nationally for its work in biofuels research, commercialization support and industry collaboration
Both organizations expressed interest in continuing discussions to identify future initiatives that can support economic development, innovation and international business growth across the region
