National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center

What is the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center?

The National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center (NCERC) is a nationally recognized research center dedicated to the development and commercialization of biotechnologies, including biofuels, bio-based chemicals and products. NCERC's business model is similar to a Contract Research Organization and allows for a range of technology testing and product development.

Advancing Ethanol, Expanding Opportunity

What started as an idea from the IL Corn Growers Association and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in 2003 has grown into a center that leads national renewable fuel research and has become a cornerstone for corn demand. NCERC continues to push boundaries with new advancements in ethanol production.

Shaping the Future with New R&D and Instruction Centers

  •  Sustainability is reshaping fuels, chemicals, and materials globally
  • Expanding NCERC’s capabilities requires tech scale-up, capital investment, and market development
  • Designated as a Biorefining Center of Excellence by the Illinois General Assembly
  • It operates the largest academic fermentation scale-up capacity in the U.S. (22,000L)
  • Over 20 years, NCERC has advanced 100+ technologies toward commercialization, especially in corn-to-ethanol
  • Strong industry partnerships create opportunities to grow Illinois’ bioeconomy
  • Future success depends on investing in new research and education infrastructure

National Corn to Chemicals and Materials Research Center

  • The Center aims to partner with industry to transition from synthetic media to corn-based inputs
  • It will also develop and scale new technologies for commercialization
  • Facility would include:
  • Explosion-proof work areas
  • Two 5,000L bioreactors to expand Ferm Suite capacity
  • Space for material intake, distribution, and maintenance