Develop DNA shuffling technology to accelerate the evolution of the genomes of commercially important microbes, together with a high-throughput screening process to identify mutant organisms having improved product yield, with a goal of doubling the current optimal rate for commercial strain improvement.

Requested ATP funds: $1,250 K
Est. project budget: $3,124 K
Announced: October 1998

Develop an innovative catalytic and flameless converter technology for diesel engines that simultaneously reduces the four primary types of emissions from diesel engines—particulates, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides—potentially saving the economy billions of dollars annually through reduced air-pollution costs.

Requested ATP funds: $1,649 K
Est. project budget: $2,422 K
Announced: October 1998

Develop a low-cost, high-yield "green" bioprocess for the production of low-cost, chemical intermediates, which then can be used to make plastics and other value-added products from renewable feedstocks.

Requested ATP funds: $2,978 K
Est. project budget: $5,968 K
Announced: October 1998

Develop and demonstrate an enhanced form of phage display technology for rapidly producing enzymes with made-to-order substrate specificities and enantioselectivities, significantly reducing the cost and time to market of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals.