10088805Development of sustainable bacteria-based solutions for potato protectionClosedInvestment AcceleratorInnovate UKBiological control agents are beneficial microbes that are applied to crops to fight plant disease. Microbes live on the plant and produce molecules that prevent pathogen/pest invasion. These "biocontrol" products are becoming more widely used, as they represent an environmentally friendly option to synthetic agrochemicals. In addition, recent bans on the most hazardous agrochemicals have left growers with fewer solutions for crop disease management. Despite their benefits, barriers remain to the widespread adoption of biocontrol products in agriculture, including inconsistent protection and long development times. We aim to overcome these barriers by using our novel technology that allows us to quickly identify biocontrol bacteria that can effectively protect crops under agricultural conditions. Our innovation also allows us to identify the underlying mechanism of action, leading to the generation of high-quality products for the agricultural sector. Potato is the 3rd most important crop in the world, and production is heavily dependent on synthetic pesticides. Potato diseases such asBlack Scurf, Stem Canker, and Blackleg, respectively caused by the fungal pathogen _Rhizoctonia solani,_ and the bacteria _Pectobacterium atrosepticum_ and _Dickeya solani,_ are responsible for over 30% of potato production loss if preventative treatments are not applied. To prevent such loss, agrochemicals are added as potato seed coatings or as an in-furrow application. Long-term, persistent treatment increases pesticide-resistant pathogens throughout the food chain, causing increased production losses and reduction of the tubers' storage life. Currently, limited biological solutions are available to prevent _Rhizoctonia_ and _Pectobacterium_ infections in potatoes and more sustainable bio-products are needed to sustain the potato industry. The proposed project seeks to utilise our innovative technology to overcome the limitations of current biological treatments and deliver a fully effective bacterial-based solution for potato protection. Our technology will allow us to: \[1\] quickly identify the most effective biocontrol agents, \[2\] rapidly identify modes of action, \[3\] provide products that have optimal activity in the targeted crop species. Ultimately, the biocontrol product will support potato growers, contribute to more sustainable farming practices, reduce costs, enhance product storage life, and decrease the associated ecological footprint. With InnovateUK support, this 12-month research programme will deliver a prototype product validated in both lab and agricultural settings. Our novel approach to biocontrol discovery has the potential to revolutionise the future of agricultural practice and food security with global exploitation potential. The project will deliver significant expert-led growth for PfBIO, increased employment, and further opportunities for R&D investment.