The Illinois SBDC International Trade Center SIUE Explores Collaboration Opportunities with NCERC; Partnership Would Support Global Growth in Biofuels and Ag Innovation

The Illinois SBDC International Trade Center SIUE Explores Collaboration Opportunities with NCERC; Partnership Would Support Global Growth in Biofuels and Ag Innovation

The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) International Trade Center (ITC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is exploring collaboration opportunities with the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center (NCERC) at SIUE 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, MIB, CGBP, Director of the Illinois SBDC International Trade Center at SIUE. "Through this collaboration, we hope to help connect companies and technologies within this ecosystem to international market opportunities, export resources and global industry networks."

"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. The unique facilities and knowledge-driven capabilities of the NCERC is setup to derisk and validate Ag-derived bioproducts geared towards exports and international markets," said Praveen V. Vadlani, PhD, MBA, NCERC Executive Director.

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.

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 resources.

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.

For more information about the Illinois SBDC International Trade Center at SIUE, please contact us at [email protected] or call (618) 650-3851 or visit International Trade Center - School of Business | SIUE.

PHOTO: Praveen V. Vadlani, PhD, MBA, NCERC Executive Director and Schneidine Louis, MIB, CGBP, Director of the Illinois SBDC International Trade Center at SIUE