CIFT News

Expansion of USDA BioPreferred Program & Program Coordinator Hired to Assist Local Initiatives

Northwest Ohio has the perfect blend of manufacturing capacity and agricultural components creating a natural center for biobased product development. The Northwest Ohio Green Products Center was established to advance the production efforts of biobased or "green" products throughout the region. Mr. James Matzinger has been hired to serve as Program Coordinator for the Northwest Ohio Green Products Center housed at the CIFT. Mr. Matzinger has an extensive background in business development, engineering, marketing, sales and customer service providing a framework of resources for existing companies or entrepreneurial efforts with regard to biobased products. Biobased products are composed, in whole or significant part, from renewable plant or animal materials rather than synthetic chemicals or hydrocarbons and petroleum-based ingredients.

A significant component of the services provided through the Center relates to the USDA BioPreferred Program. This program is designed to provide governmental procurement preference to biobased products provided those products are determined appropriate and on the approved list. USDA recently announced 27 new groupings of biobased products for procurement meaning 2,469 biobased products now qualify for federal agencies and contractors to purchase provided the biobased content has been proven, quantities are readily available and the price reasonable.

Roof coatings, adhesives, hand cleaners and sanitizers, disposable containers, fertilizers, grease removers and much more are included in the approved product categories. Manufacturers who currently produce biobased products, those who have the potential to produce the products, or entrepreneurs investigating the creation of biobased items are encouraged to contact the Northwest Ohio Green Products Center to learn more about the extensive services available to assist companies advance their concepts and explore the USDA BioPreferred program as an increased market opportunity. "The purpose of the Northwest Ohio Green Products Center is to educate and promote the economic, environmental, and business potential associated with developmental efforts in green products. The opportunities are endless and as demonstrated through the commitment of the USDA BioPreferred Program, engagement in this area is gaining momentum and provides a niche opportunity for many local businesses," comments Matzinger.

Mr. Matzinger, a graduate of the University of Toledo with a Masters degree specializing in Economic Development and a Bachelor of Science degree focused on business and technology development, is poised to guide local businesses down the path of development and advancement. As a leader in alternative energy and new technology, coupled with a unique manufacturing base, Northwest Ohio serves as a prime location for continued green product development.

To learn more about the Northwest Ohio Green Products Center and the services available, call 419.724.8343 or visit www.nwohiogreenproducts.org.

CIFT News...

• An Urban Agriculture Opportunity Unveiled: Promedica Announces First Harvest at its Vertical Hydroponics Garden

• Celebrating Toledo's Specialty Foods: CIFT & the Northwest Ohio Restaurant Association Announce Winning Food Entries in the 1st Annual Product Development Competition

• Beck Chosen as President and CEO of EISC, Inc.

• Ken Lee and Dan McGrady Elected to EISC, Inc. Governing Board

• CIFT Publishes Northwest Ohio Food Manufacturers Directory

• CIFT Investigates High Density Vertical Growing System

• Expansion of USDA BioPreferred Program & Program Coordinator Hired to Assist Local Initiatives

• USDA Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Program

• Snacks Made with Alternative Flours

• Ohio MarketMaker Launches

• CIFT Hosts Enhanced Food Production Systems Seminar

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