Polar Sapphire Awarded $4.1M by SDTC for Battery Cleantech
On December 1, 2021, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne made public an investment through Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) worth $4.1 million. The investment was awarded to the Ontario cleantech company Polar Sapphire based out of Oakville. Polar Sapphire is focused on cleantech innovation and produces 3N to 6N purity alumina for improved sapphire boule yields.
“Now is the time for ambitious climate action. Cleantech innovation, entrepreneurship and commercialization are key to the vital shift to a healthier environment and a net-zero carbon economy. Today’s announcement will boost our leadership in climate and waste reduction technologies and help foster a truly Canadian success story.”
– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
This investment from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is a great example of how the organization, a not-for-profit foundation, is fulfilling its mandate of investing in businesses supporting clean technology. So far, SDTC has invested over $1 billion in Canadian initiatives and created 17,000 jobs since its inception in the early 2000s.
What Does Polar Sapphire Do?
As a successful Ontario organization, Polar Sapphire is a prime example of the type of talent that the Canadian government is interested in investing in to stimulate Canada’s competitive advantage on the global cleantech stage. This is the second round of funding that Polar Sapphire has received from Sustainable Development Technology Canada for their innovative projects.
“SDTC funding will allow Polar Sapphire to build a demonstration line for manufacturing high-purity alumina used in the production of lithium-ion batteries. We are very excited about the tremendous growth opportunities for battery raw materials created by the rapid growth in electric vehicles.”
– Scott Nichol, Founder and CEO, Polar Sapphire
Improving the next generation of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) via high-purity alumina will give Polar Sapphire and Ontario a competitive advantage in this expanding market. This technology is a key component to the electric vehicle market, as well as other cleantech industries as the need for fast charging becomes more prevalent.
Exploring Sustainable Development Technology Canada Funding Opportunities
The SDTC investment in Polar Sapphire highlights the exciting opportunities facing Ontario innovators in cleantech. Government funding opportunities continue to support the initiatives that will make Canada a greener economy.
“Canadian entrepreneurs are driving the innovation that is moving us towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. This investment will enable Polar Sapphire to rapidly accelerate and commercialize its ideas and continues the momentum of public and private commitments to reducing global emissions.”
– Leah Lawrence, President and CEO, Sustainable Development Technology Canada
Although Sustainable Development Technology Canada offers promising opportunities for Ontario cleantech organizations, there are plenty of other grants, loans, and tax credits available. Companies should take some time to learn more about cleantech funding programs or other general government funding opportunities.
Interested businesses may also use our free Canadian business funding guide to learn how to carefully plan and develop a successful approach to the funding landscape in Canada.
Mentor Works streamlines the government funding process through optimized processes and resources. Businesses are paired with an experienced team of professional grant writers who complete each stage of the funding process.
