RESEARCH

Research is an integral part of what we are all about. State farmer dollars invested in research for corn have already resulted in the further development of corn-based markets such as ethanol, carpeting, fabrics, salt substitutes, and plastics that replace petroleum-based products.

Research requests for proposals (RFP) are distributed to parties interested in advancing Michigan’s corn industry through new and improved markets or through innovative production practices. Each year the board of directors for the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan (CMPM) and the Michigan Corn Growers Association (MCGA) meet to hear proposals from individual researchers, as well as organizations and universities, and vote to fund projects they feel meet their criteria and will add value to the corn industry. In addition to the research projects funded through this process, the CMPM partners with other corn growing states to fund large-scale national projects too large for an individual state to fund on their own.

The CMPM will focus on two areas when evaluating research proposals:

• The development of processes adding value to Michigan corn through new markets or advancements in traditional markets, such as the livestock industry.
• Innovative production techniques and environmentally sound practices that enhance productivity.

2010 Request for Proposals

Preliminary proposals were due by noon on Nov. 13, 2009. Non-MSU proposals should have been submitted to the CMPM ofice, while MSU proposals should have been submitted to the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station. MSU transmittal forms were required for preliminary proposals.

The CMPM and the MCGA boards reviewed preliminary proposals at their Dec. 17, 2009 Board meeting. They had the option to add to their preliminary proposal by submitting a full proposal by Jan. 5, 2010. They were also scheduled for a 15-minute presentation on their project to the Boards on Jan. 21, 2010. Funded projects will be announced February 12, 2010.

If you know of others who have projects in line with the CMPM's goals, please feel free to share this information with them. If you have any questions, please contact Betsy Braid in the CMPM office at (517) 668-2676.