How Bio-Gene’s US DoD Grants and OMRI Approval Could Transform Insecticide Markets

Momentum Builds on Bio-Gene’s Proprietary Insecticides

Bio-Gene Technology Limited (ASX – BGT) has entered 2026 with notable momentum, advancing its natural insecticide platforms Flavocide® and Qcide® beyond foundational development into critical regulatory, product development, and commercialisation phases. The company’s latest quarterly report highlights progress on multiple fronts, including US Department of Defense (DoD)-funded projects and a significant organic certification milestone in the United States.

Managing Director Tim Grogan emphasised the company’s focus on completing regulatory safety studies for Flavocide®, aiming to secure registrations across multiple jurisdictions. These studies, guided by Australian regulators, are designed to build a robust data package to support global commercial deployment. Parallel formulation development with commercial partners and successful pilot-scale manufacturing with Rallis India have positioned Bio-Gene to scale production effectively.

US Department of Defense Grants Drive Innovation

Bio-Gene’s two US DoD Deployed Warfighter Protection programs, funded with A$3 million over three years, are progressing well. The Flavocide® wearable device project is advancing through device engineering and formulation development, with early entomological tests showing promising mosquito mortality results. This wearable emanator concept aims to protect military personnel and civilians from insect-borne diseases.

The Qcide® indoor spray project, designed to control indoor pests such as bed bugs and houseflies, is poised to commence laboratory testing following the recent US government shutdown and finalisation of partner agreements. These projects not only validate Bio-Gene’s technology but also demonstrate its versatility across public health applications.

Organic Certification Opens New Market Opportunities

Qcide® achieved a key regulatory milestone with approval from the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) for listing under the USDA National Organic Program. This endorsement allows Qcide® to be used in certified organic farming systems in the US, expanding its commercial reach into organic agriculture, eco-label consumer products, and sustainable pest control markets. While OMRI listing is not a regulatory approval itself, it signals strong market acceptance and supports Bio-Gene’s strategy to develop environmentally responsible insecticides.

Financial Position and Outlook

Financially, Bio-Gene reported a negative operating cash flow of $267,000 for the quarter but maintains a healthy cash balance of $1.08 million, providing an estimated four quarters of funding runway. The company also received a $519,500 research and development tax incentive from the Australian Taxation Office, reflecting ongoing investment in product innovation.

Looking ahead, Bio-Gene plans to broaden commercial partnerships across public health, crop protection, and consumer pest control sectors, leveraging its validated technology platforms. With eight active product opportunities and expanding international business development, the company is well positioned to deliver further regulatory, technical, and commercial milestones throughout 2026.