Mining Technology from Lab to Market: VC Insights for Deep Tech Startups. A chat with Jason Holt, Partner @ Orion Industrial Ventures

Dec 13, 2024

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

Host: Nicola Marchese

Guest: Jason Holt, Partner at Orion Industrial Ventures

#DeepTechCatalyst

Watch the ⁠⁠⁠full video on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠platform⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. The mining industry faces significant challenges in exploration, energy-intensive comminution, and waste management. However, these bottlenecks also present opportunities for innovation through technologies like machine learning, advanced waste valorization, and energy-efficient rock processing methods.

2. Aspiring mining tech founders should collaborate with industry partners early to ensure their solutions address real-world problems. Differentiating technology is not enough; it must also be distinctive and provide unique, high-value benefits to stand out in a competitive market.

3. Mining technology startups must navigate long timelines and significant capital requirements. Leveraging non-dilutive funding, such as government grants, and adopting flexible business models, like licensing, can help mitigate financial risks.

4. The mining sector’s conservative nature makes market adoption a challenge. Startups should focus on forming meaningful partnerships, avoiding superficial engagements, and tailoring solutions to seamlessly integrate with existing operations or deliver transformational benefits.

5. Investors in mining tech look for well-rounded teams, realistic timelines, and awareness of regulatory compliance. Red flags include Teams with limited business acumen, unrealistic financial projections, and ignorance of environmental and regulatory challenges.

6. TEA has become a cornerstone of evaluating mining tech startups, providing insights into production costs, market feasibility, and sensitivity to variables like energy prices. Early-stage founders should use TEA to refine their financial models and align with investor expectations.

#Mining #RawMaterials #Fundraising #Startups #DeepTech #VentureCapital #Healthcare #HealthTech #AI #B2B #VCs #HardTech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship

Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.