Global mining corporation Rio Tinto, together with venture capital firm Founders Factory, has selected six technology startups that will be developed. Participated in the competition 500 applicants.
The winners focus on three key areas: artificial intelligence, advanced chemistry and spatial data. These technologies are designed to improve the efficiency of searching for and extracting copper, lithium and iron ore.
Foresight Spatial Labs creates a 4D spatial data platform for engineering and autonomous operation. Chemshift is developing technology for low-cost lithium refining to battery level. Supra produces cartridges for the production of ultra-pure critical minerals. Material Difference applies artificial intelligence algorithms to clarify the boundaries of ore bodies. Voluna uses airborne neutron technology for real-time geochemical mapping. Watergenics provides continuous analysis of industrial water flows.
The program connects startup founders with Rio Tinto’s operational and technical expertise, helping them scale solutions that can address long-standing industry challenges. Founders Factory, in turn, provides partnerships with large companies and support for projects in the early stages, including the organization of pilot implementations and accelerated entry to the market.
Rio Tinto general manager of innovation Emily Hilton stressed that start-ups play a key role in the solution the most difficult challenges in the mining industry. By connecting talented startups with industry, the company hopes to turn promising ideas into technologies that will transform the exploration, processing and recovery of critical minerals.
The selection of startups into the accelerator program comes amid a growing need for innovations that can reduce their carbon footprint and improve mining efficiency. The success of previous cohorts, which have attracted significant follow-on investment, demonstrates that the market is ready to support technology solutions that are changing the face of mining.
Source: mining.com
