URBANA, Ill. — The Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) on Sept. 9 gifted $2.5 million to help fund a Feed Technology Center for the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at the University of Illinois, which will facilitate research in pet nutrition and animal agriculture.

The new Feed Technology Center will provide researchers at the College of ACES with expanded capabilities and reach, including the ability to produce various sizes of test batches for studying both specialized and traditional animal diets.

Construction officially began in June 2019, with an expected completion date in fall 2020. The entire project is projected to cost $20 million, and the University of Illinois and the College of ACES have committed $6 million already. ADM’s gift will help alleviate some of the financial pressure on the university.

“Thanks to this investment from ADM, we will continue in our long tradition of leading innovative, industry-relevant research while training the next generation of experts in feed science and animal nutrition,” said Kim Kidwell, dean of the College of ACES. “We are truly grateful for their partnership, both in this moment and throughout the history of the college.”  

Rodney Johnson, head of the department of animal sciences at the University of Illinois, added, “The College of ACES values collaboration with industry partners. This investment from ADM extends the long-established partnership in animal nutrition innovation, professional preparation, and public engagement.”  

Collaboration with other industry partners, academic professionals and clients will be made easier with the new facility as well.

“Innovation across the entire ag supply chain is key to helping the entire industry find new solutions to tackle the monumental challenge of feeding the world’s growing population,” said Ryan Lane, president of ADM Animal Nutrition in North America. “ADM is fortunate to have a strong partnership with the College of ACES and access to their animal nutrition staff, student talent, and research capabilities as we work together to develop new products, services, and solutions. We are proud to help support the College of ACES and the animal nutrition industry on this exciting new project.”

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