DESIGN of a Biomanufacturing EWD Prototype to Support the Growth of South Dakota's Bioeconomy

Members: Dakota BioWorx, South Dakota Biotech

Project dates: 2026 – present

Dakota BioWorx and South Dakota Biotech are launching a pilot-scale biomanufacturing education and workforce development training program that will serve the projected growth of the South Dakota and Midwest bioeconomy. As the bioeconomy in the U.S. grows and the number of biomanufacturing facilities increases, the need for a a skilled workforce at all levels will also grow. Utilizing Dakota BioWorx’s state-of-the art pilot-scale biomanufacturing facility, students will learn at a scale that represents full-scale modern biomanufacturing operations rather than lab-scale techniques.  Feedback from current bioproduct-producing companies will be used to cross-check and tailor a training curriculum that meets the needs of employers. Dakota BioWorx and South Dakota Biotech will also partner with South Dakota State University’s bioprocessing minor and certificate programs to create course content that will become an on-ramp for people at all levels interested in a career in biomanufacturing, including veterans re-entering the civilian workforce. 

Funding source: U.S. Department of Defense

Related news:

• National grant to fund new biomanufacturing training program in South Dakota