» How AURI Can Help

AURI offers unique resources designed to help develop new uses and value additions to Minnesota-grown agricultural products. Our sole goal is to help create value.

What does AURI offer?

  • Product development including prototyping, scale up, analysis
  • Process evaluation
  • Technology transfer
  • Access to unique laboratory facilities and a trained, professional staff
  • Feasibility assistance including evaluation of both technical and market feasibility

When should I contact AURI?

AURI assistance is most valuable early in the development of a value-added project. Our feasibility assistance can help determine the next steps a project could take. While early is better, any time assistance is needed in the development of an ag-based enterprise, contact us to find out more about what we can do to help.

How do I contact AURI?

A great deal of information on AURI, including a staff listing, is available on this site. However, if you can't find what you are looking for or would prefer to speak with someone in person, feel free to contact us and we will gladly connect you with the most appropriate resource.

Our professional staff will work with you one-on-one to assess your needs and help determine the next steps to be taken.

What type of businesses does AURI assist?

AURI works with entrepreneurs, existing businesses, cooperatives and other legaly organized entities working to add value to Minnesota-grown agricultural commodities and coproducts.

What programs does AURI offer?

AURI offers several programs to move projects forward that have the potential to create new uses or new markets for Minnesota agricultural commodities. These programs are available to legally organized businesses or cooperatives working to add value to farm products. The amount of assistance available is based on a project's merit and potential impact to the state's agricultural economy.

These programs are designed to:

  • Bring commodity enhanced products to production
  • Assist in developing a process to enhance a feasible product
  • Assist in promoting an AURI-enhanced product
  • Identify emerging value-added opportunities
  • Provide resources to assist in the commercialization of a product or process

Our programs are detailed in the following pages:

Applied Technology Services  (download application here)

Project Development Services  (download application here)

Notice to AURI-funded clients:  At the end of each calendar year, AURI will provide an IRS 1099 form to clients who have received financial assistance from AURI. Contact the AURI State Office (218-281-7600) if you have questions.

What if I still have questions?

We are always glad to talk to you to provide you with the information you need, or to point you in the right direction. For more information, don't hesitate to contact us.