How to bid on Technology Licensing for PAD-TIE from the Department of Energy

What the agency is offering and why it matters

The Department of Energy is offering licensing opportunities for its Platform to Accelerate Discovery of Tailored Industrial Enzymes (PAD-TIE). This technology was developed by NREL and Los Alamos National Laboratory. PAD-TIE is an advanced screening system designed to quickly find and optimize enzymes that break down PET plastic.

This platform can screen tens of thousands of enzyme variants simultaneously under conditions relevant to industrial use. It evaluates enzyme activity, stability, and production potential in a single process. The goal is to support sustainable PET recycling and upcycling, turning plastic into reusable building blocks without harsh chemicals or high energy use. This is a chance for companies to license a validated technology at Technology Readiness Level 6, with three U.S. patents pending.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This licensing opportunity was published on July 08, 2026. The deadline for expressing interest is October 01, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET. This is the final date and time by which you should submit your licensing inquiry or proposal to be considered for this technology.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is ideal for existing companies and startups in the professional category, particularly those involved in recycling and waste management, bioremediation, polymer manufacturing, and bioplastics. Firms seeking scalable, enzyme-based solutions for plastic waste management and recycling will find this technology relevant. It is suited for companies looking to integrate engineered enzymes into industrial plastic processing workflows or develop biodegradable plastics.

How to respond

To access the original source of this opportunity, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view any associated documents, though this is not always required for all bids. For specific discussions about licensing, you can contact [email protected].

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When preparing your response for a technology licensing opportunity, clearly articulate your company's business model and how it aligns with the market applications of PAD-TIE. Highlight your firm's capabilities in areas like recycling, waste management, or polymer manufacturing, demonstrating how you can effectively commercialize this technology.

Focus on how your company can leverage the key advantages of PAD-TIE, such as its scalable high-throughput screening and optimization for industrial use. Provide a clear vision for how you would integrate this platform into your operations and the potential impact on sustainable plastic waste management or new product development. Emphasize your financial capacity and strategic plan for bringing this technology to market, whether through exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.