Project Call 9.1

NIIMBL is pleased to announce Project Call 9.1 for technology and workforce development projects. Through Project Call 9.1, NIIMBL intends to steward up to $8 million in new project activities, which includes NIIMBL funding and co-investment from project participants.

The concept submission deadline is September 16, 2025. Submitters must be NIIMBL members.

Requests for Proposals (RFPs)

Download the Project Call 9.1T Request for Proposals (Technology) (.pdf)
Download the Project Call 9.1W Request for Proposals (Workforce Development) (.pdf)

Submission Hub

Submit a concept for Project Call 9.1T (Technology)
Submit a concept for Project Call 9.1W (Workforce Development)

Concept Stage Webinar

NIIMBL will host a Concept Stage Webinar on Friday, August 15, 2025, at noon ET. During the webinar, we will provide an overview of the concept requirements and answer your questions. Members and non-members are invited to attend the webinar. However, organizations must be members to submit a concept.

To register, click the link below.

Register for the Project Call 9.1 Webinar

Topic Areas

Technology

  • Real-Time Monitoring and Advanced Process Analytics for In-process Control
  • Integrated Modeling and Control Strategies Linking Upstream, Downstream, and Cell Line Development
  • Novel Protein Expression Platforms for Complex and Next-Generation Biotherapeutics
  • Digital and Automation Platforms to Enhance Downstream Development and Filtration Scalability
  • Advanced AI/ML-driven Strategies for Biopharmaceutical Process Modeling and Optimization

Workforce Development

Workforce Pipelines and Talent Development

  • Stimulate Knowledge and Interest in Biopharma Manufacturing Careers
  • Accelerate Career and Leadership Advancement in Biopharma Manufacturing

Technical Curriculum Development

  • Build an AI-Ready Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Workforce
  • Pilot Lower-Cost Options for Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Education

Partnership

  • Catalyze Cross-Regional Workforce Development Partnerships
  • Building a Future Biopharma Workforce Through Cross-Sector Pathways

Participation Benefits

Project Calls give NIIMBL members the opportunity to work collaboratively on solutions to current biopharmaceutical technology and talent development challenges.

Large Industry

  • Steer the development of new ideas towards areas of strategic importance for industry
  • Partner with member academic institutions and small to medium manufacturing companies with innovative technologies to meet your current manufacturing challenges
  • Connect with investigators and learn about new capabilities during our Project Call Summit
  • Access innovative technology and workforce solutions through active participation on projects
  • Serve as a reviewer to prioritize proposals that align with industry interests
  • Share risks and benefits of new innovations through partnerships

Small-to-Medium Manufacturers (SMMs)

  • Showcase your company’s capabilities to large manufacturers and receive feedback on your technologies
  • Align your capabilities with industry needs and increase visibility
  • Share your technology and concept during our virtual Project Call Summit
  • Secure partnerships to help mature your technology toward commercialization through collaboration with industry and academic institutions
  • Develop partnerships with large companies and academic institutions within the NIIMBL member community
  • Access commercialization expertise and industry networks

Academic Research Institutions

  • Collaborate with large industry, small to medium manufactures, and other academic institutions to work toward biopharmaceutical innovative solutions
  • Understand current industry challenges and develop potential solutions
  • Share your innovative ideas with industry during the virtual Project Call Summit
  • Secure partnership to develop and advance your technology
  • Apply knowledge and innovations in a real-world setting, increasing the impact of your work

Community Colleges and Nonprofits

  • Work collaboratively with companies to ensure training programs meet their skills gaps
  • Share your training solution with industry during the virtual Project Call Summit
  • Secure partnership to develop biopharma training and education programs

Key Dates

August 1, 2025 RFP Release
August 15, 2025 Project Call 9.1 Concept Stage Webinar 
September 16, 2025 (5:00 pm ET) Concept Paper Deadline
September 25, 26, & 30, 2025 Virtual Summit
October 2025 Invite for Full Proposal
January 29, 2026 Full Proposal Deadline
February 2026 Full Proposal Review
Expected March 2026 Award Decisions Announced

Templates & Guides

Concept Stage

Guide: Concept Checklist (.docx)
Guide: Human Subjects Research (.pdf)
Guide: Vertebrate Animals (.pdf)
Guide: Federal Stakeholders (.pdf)
Template: Concept Stage Biomanufacturing Readiness Levels (BRL) Questionnaire (.docx)
Template: Project Call 9.1T (Technology) Concept Slides (.pptx)
Template: Project Call 9.1W (Workforce Development) Concept Slides (.pptx)

Questions

If you have questions regarding Project Call 9.1, contact us at [email protected].

Become a member

We offer a variety of membership options that give you the flexibility to choose your organization’s level of engagement based on technology interests and priorities.