Through this interconnected network, the Bio- Great Transformation Strategy seeks to promote collaboration and share infrastructure among clusters, strengthening South Korea’s global positioning in commercial bio-innovation. To launch the initiative, the newly formed National Bio Committee will coordinate policies across ministries to support public-private collaboration in areas such as health, medical care, food, resources, energy and the environment. The committee aims to create a unified bio data platform, establish advanced computing infrastructure, and train 110,000 professionals in the bio-health field by 2027. By connecting these bioclusters and promoting resource sharing, South Korea intends to enhance their positioning as a global leader in commercial bio-innovation by 2035.64 Linking government-funded facilities into broader innovation ecosystems enables collaboration, drives bio-innovation and builds strong regional capabilities. These hubs not only attract local and international talent but also support thedevelopment of skilled workforces in multiple regions, including those without dedicated government infrastructure. Expanding access across innovation ecosystems promotes regional development through job creation and supports economic growth, particularly in underserved areas (Box 9). A coordinated network approach can enhance access to funding, markets and policy support, while enabling a more diverse, competitive and inclusive innovation landscape. Making facilities more accessible, alongside targeted outreach and scholarship programmes, will broaden participation, making the bioeconomy more equitable globally. Furthermore, investing in affordable, modular infrastructure, such as biofoundries outside traditional tech centres will empower regional talent and build localized access to innovation tools and expertise. Together, these efforts will strengthen supply chain resilience, prepare nations for future challenges and accelerate the bioeconomy, advancing both economic progress and global competitiveness. US National Science Foundation BioFoundries investment BOX 9 A notable example of government investment in biofoundries is the US National Science Foundation’s (NSF) initiative to establish five new biofoundries, with a total investment of $75 million.65 These facilities aim to democratize access to advanced biotechnology infrastructure, providing researchers nationwide, ranging from community colleges to research-intensive universities, with tools and technologies to advance biology, biotechnology and bioengineering. The NSF BioFoundries will operate as user facilities without charging user fees, facilitating innovation across various sectors, including AI, health and climate resilience. Additionally, the NSF is collaborating internationally to create global centres that will employ biofoundries to accelerate R&D in the bioeconomy. 30 From Policy to Practice: Actionable Recommendations for a Commercial Bioeconomy

From Policy to Practice Actionable Recommendations for a Commercial Bioeconomy 2025