Bedrock Materials

Founded in 2023 and based in Chicago, Bedrock Materials develops sustainable sodium-ion battery materials as alternatives to lithium-ion technology. Through innovative cathode designs and partnerships with leading research institutions, the company enhances performance and reduces costs for clean energy applications.

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Bedrock Materials is a forward-thinking startup dedicated to revolutionizing the energy storage industry through the development and production of active materials for sodium-ion batteries. Founded in 2023 by Spencer Gore and Rafael Vila, both Stanford University alumni with extensive experience in battery technology, the company aims to provide a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. By focusing on sodium-ion technology, Bedrock Materials addresses the growing demand for energy storage solutions that rely on abundant and environmentally friendly materials like sodium, iron, and manganese.

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Bedrock Materials is strategically positioned to leverage the region’s strong materials science research ecosystem, including partnerships with institutions like Argonne National Laboratory and Northwestern University. The company’s mission is to lay the foundation for energy abundance by delivering innovative battery materials that enhance performance, reduce costs, and support the global transition to clean energy.

Battery Technology

Bedrock Materials specializes in the development of sodium-ion battery (SIB) technology, which offers a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries. Sodium-ion batteries utilize sodium, an abundant and low-cost material, as the primary charge carrier, making them more sustainable and economically viable. While sodium-ion batteries typically have a slightly lower energy density compared to lithium-ion counterparts, recent advancements have significantly improved their performance, particularly in entry-level markets.

The company’s core offering is its engineered sodium-ion cathode materials, which are designed to be compatible with existing lithium-ion battery manufacturing infrastructure. This compatibility allows battery manufacturers to adopt sodium-ion technology without requiring significant capital investments in new equipment. Bedrock Materials’ cathode materials are tailored for specific applications, including low-voltage uses, starter-lighting-ignition systems, micromobility propulsion, and industrial traction.

By focusing on sodium-ion technology, Bedrock Materials addresses critical challenges in the battery industry, such as the reliance on scarce and expensive materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt. The company’s innovations in battery chemistry and manufacturing processes position it as a key player in the development of next-generation energy storage solutions.

Recent Projects

In May 2024, Bedrock Materials secured $9 million in seed funding to establish its Research & Development (R&D) headquarters in Chicago. This funding, led by prominent investors such as Trucks Venture Capital, Refactor Capital, and Version One Ventures, underscores the company’s potential to disrupt the energy storage market. The investment will support the development of advanced sodium-ion cathode materials and the scaling of production capabilities.

Additionally, Bedrock Materials was accepted into the prestigious StartX program in April 2024, further validating its innovative approach and entrepreneurial drive. The company also received a $150,000 CalSEED grant in September 2023, aimed at accelerating the development of sustainable energy solutions. These milestones highlight Bedrock Materials’ commitment to advancing sodium-ion battery technology and its growing influence in the energy storage sector.

Investors

Bedrock Materials has attracted significant investment from a diverse group of venture capital firms and individual investors. The company’s $9 million seed funding round in May 2024 was led by Trucks Venture Capital, Refactor Capital, and Version One Ventures. Other notable investors include Hanover Technology Investment Management, SpaceCadet Ventures, Brainstorm Capital, and Evergreen Climate Innovations.

These investments reflect strong confidence in Bedrock Materials’ vision and its potential to transform the energy storage landscape. The funding will enable the company to expand its R&D efforts, scale production, and bring its sodium-ion battery materials to market.