Later in the project, the partners will look at testing the sprayability of the formulation, and this work aims to evaluate the spray characteristics, droplet size and droplet deposition on leaves of the formulations received earlier in the project.

The project combines cutting-edge expertise with conventional sprayers to evaluate spray characteristics and uses new technology to contribute to an innovative approach.

During the project, field trials for nutrient management will be conducted with the aim of evaluating WDG and biofilm-encapsulated biofertilizer formulations on various crops for efficacy and phytotoxicity on commercial farms during years two and three.

The trials will evaluate strawberries for yield, quality and health; potatoes for yield, size and vigor; wheat for yield, height and disease resistance; and ornamental plants for growth, flowering and aesthetics, compared to existing solutions.

Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema Group, as lead SME partner for the Biofilm Biofertiliser project, said: “The Biofilm Biofertiliser project represents a significant step towards a sustainable and resilient agricultural future. By integrating cutting-edge biofilm technology with UK-specific microbial solutions, we empower farmers and growers to reduce their reliance on synthetic fertilisers whilst improving soil health and crop productivity. At Bionema, we drive innovation in biocontrol, biostimulants and biofertilisers, ensuring sustainable agricultural solutions are effective and economically viable for farmers and growers. This collaboration, supported by Innovate UK, brings together the expertise needed to transform nutrient management and set new standards for environmentally responsible farming.”

Kris Wadrop, Managing Director of Materials at CPI, said: “At CPI, we are committed to driving innovation in sustainable agriculture by supporting the development, scale-up and commercialisation of innovative technologies. The Biofilm Biofertiliser project is an exciting opportunity to develop an innovative solution to improve soil health and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers. By leveraging our expertise in engineering biology, formulation science and advanced manufacturing techniques, we aim to help bring this novel biofertiliser to market, helping UK farmers adopt more sustainable and productive farming practices.”

Richard Glass, Head of Innovation at the UK Agri-Tech Centre, said: “This project will provide vital support to farmers looking to increase the economic and environmental sustainability of crop production by reducing reliance on synthetic nitrogen fertilisers. This would enable a reduction in the cost of agricultural inputs, as well as reducing the carbon footprint of the cropping system. There are additional benefits with reduced field GHG emissions associated with synthetic fertilisers and improved soil health.”

Bionema is a leading biocontrol technology company specialising in sustainable crop protection and plant health solutions. Through its innovative biocontrol agents, Bionema combats pests and diseases, protects crops and improves yields, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Committed to sustainability and global collaboration, Bionema is shaping the future of agriculture.

CPI catalyzes the adoption of advanced technologies and manufacturing solutions to benefit people, places and our planet. It accelerates the development, scale-up and commercialization of smart technologies in agri-food, energy storage, healthcare technology, materials and pharmaceutical innovations. Through our incredible innovation and infrastructure experts, it looks beyond the obvious to transform healthcare and drive a sustainable future. As a trusted partner to industry, academia, government, entrepreneurs and the investment community, it connects the dots within the innovation ecosystem to make great ideas and inventions a reality. Its philosophy is that by working together, it is possible to build a better collective future and, as part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, it facilitates access to world-class organizations to generate transformations in all industries and landscapes.