NextFor launches EOI for lignin commercialization challenge

NextFor has launched an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a $1 million joint investment commercialization challenge around lignin.

Project background

Throughout the Canadian forest sector, lignin has traditionally been treated as low-quality, low-value side streams of product processing. However, lignin is an abundant raw material. When extracted and processed, lignin has a wide variety of uses and applications, including opportunities to displace traditional fossil- based chemicals and products. Lignin-derived products will play a crucial role in the Canadian bio-economy value chain.

Nextfor has launched a series of High Performance Lignin Collaboration Forums to gather value chain feedback on the state of lignin product development in Canada and Ontario. Industry leaders worked together in these sessions to identify three opportunity maps for commercialization:

• Polymers and fine chemicals
• Resins and adhesives
• Thermoplastics and composites

Project goals and outcomes

The purpose of this EOI is to launch a $1 million joint investment challenge (50 per cent industry matching contribution required) to support a project which will establish or increase the commercial readiness of lignin-based platforms, and build robust consortiums through information sharing and collaboration.

Eligibility

For the purposes of this EOI, a consortium must be formed with one member which is an Ontario entity. More detail on consortium criteria and eligibility can be found in the supporting documentation.

For the complete Lignin Challenge Registration Package, interested parties must register for free to become a Nextfor member.

Download the Call for Expression of Interest here.

Launch date: May 27, 2020
Deadline for submissions: July 13, 2020
Deadline for questions: June 24, 2020