University spin-out closes $5.6m investment round to scale up its technology deployment

A climate tech spin-out from the University of Manchester specialising in the development of sustainable mineral recovery systems has announced the closure of a $5.6m Series A investment round, led by Par Equity as part of a syndicate with Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Aer Ventures and the University of Manchester Innovation Factory.

This investment for Watercycle Technologies will enable it to rapidly scale up and commercially deploy its technology to deliver sustainable, low cost, high yield mineral recovery systems.

Watercycle’s mineral recovery systems have received international traction from government bodies and businesses on every continent.

The goal of the company’s proprietary technology is twofold – mitigating the growing critical mineral supply risks and fostering a circular economy in which waste is converted into value.

The company is looking to deploy its innovative solutions, which will significantly impact the production of raw materials crucial for facilitating the green energy transition.

Dr Seb Leaper, co-founder and CEO, said: ”It’s fantastic to have backing from such an excellent syndicate of investors who are strategically positioned to help Watercycle rapidly scale.

“With the continued support of our initial backers, the University of Manchester and Aer Ventures, along with new financial support provided by deep tech veterans Par Equity and local champions, GMCA, Watercycle is in a stronger position than ever to deliver on its mission to provide the world with a sustainable supply of critical raw materials without which there is no sustainable future.’’

Since spinning out of the University of Manchester in 2020, the company has made remarkable progress from experimental conception to the successful implementation and operation of a pilot-scale system, resulting in the recent production of more than 100kg of battery-grade lithium carbonate.

This development work has been funded by a combination of equity investment and highly competitive grant funding.

The new funds raised will be pivotal in advancing the development of new products, strengthening existing commercial relationships and forging new partnerships.

This round has also attracted an Innovate UK Investor Partnership grant, which recognises the highly innovative and strategic nature of the company’s technology. It will fuel the company’s continued progress with plans to expand the existing team and bring on new talent.

Watercycle CTO, Ahmed Abdelkarim, said: “We are excited to be taking the company forward to ton-scale production of battery grade minerals.

“Our achievements to date are a testament to the dedication, brilliance and drive of our remarkable team.”

Elizabeth Young, investment manager at Par Equity, said: “There is an incredible wealth of talent and innovation emerging from universities in the North of the UK, with Watercycle Technologies serving as a prime example from the University of Manchester.

“We’re proud to support WT’s growth through investment and by connecting the business with experts from our network.”

She added: “This mission-critical sector is vital for the UK as we work on addressing global challenges, particularly in securing essential mineral and water infrastructure.

“By supporting foundational technologies like Watercycle, we strengthen the UK’s innovative ecosystem and pave the way for the climate solutions of tomorrow.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: “This investment is a great example of how we’re supporting local innovation to strengthen Greater Manchester’s position as a leader in the low carbon economy. Our investment in homegrown businesses like Watercycle Technologies reflects our commitment to becoming a cleaner and more prosperous city-region.”

Paul Dudley, managing partner from Aer Ventures, said: “In this time the business has developed its cutting edge technologies rapidly and can now provide important solutions to a range of customers in the critical metals sector. Today we welcome new investors to help develop Watercycle further and look forward to continuing ongoing success in the future.”

Roisin McCallion, business development and investment director for the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, said: “This Series A investment marks a significant milestone, not only for the Watercycle Technologies team, but also for The University of Manchester’s wider mission to drive impactful innovation.

“Their pioneering technology has the potential to make a profound contribution to addressing critical mineral supply challenges and advancing the international transition to green energy.”