COnovate Inc., based in Milwaukee since 2016, develops sustainable carbon-based nanomaterials like eCOPHITE™ to enhance lithium-ion batteries. Their bio-sourced anode materials offer faster charging, higher capacity, and improved performance for applications including electric vehicles and drones.

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COnovate Inc., established in 2016 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, develops and commercializes advanced carbon-based nanomaterials for battery applications. The company’s flagship innovation, eCOPHITE™, represents the world’s only form of solid carbon monoxide (CO), designed to enhance lithium-ion battery performance. Originally known as SafeLi, LLC, COnovate has grown from a single employee to a team of 11 professionals under the leadership of CEO Dr. Carol Hirschmugl. The company’s mission centers on creating sustainable, bio-sourced anode materials that improve battery efficiency while maintaining competitive costs.

Battery Technology

COnovate’s eCOPHITE™ material serves as a direct replacement for traditional graphite anodes in lithium-ion batteries. This proprietary technology offers several significant advantages: faster charging capabilities, increased energy storage capacity, and enhanced cold weather performance. The material’s composition, derived from bio-renewable feedstocks, eliminates dependence on imported graphite and creates a sustainable, localized supply chain.

The company has also developed specialized graphene monoxide compositions, protected by patents, which demonstrate exceptional potential for both lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery applications. These materials integrate seamlessly with existing battery manufacturing processes, requiring minimal modifications to current production methods. Initial target markets include power tools, electric bikes, and drones, with plans to expand into electric vehicle applications. The technology’s versatility extends beyond energy storage, showing promise in catalysis, corrosion resistance, electrical sensing, and photonic applications.

Recent Projects

In June 2023, COnovate secured a $250,000 Technology Development Loan from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. This funding supports the commercialization of eCOPHITE materials and strengthens local manufacturing capabilities. The company has actively participated in industry events, including the Cleantech Forum North America, where they presented their innovative battery solutions. Their ongoing research continues to advance material performance and scaling capabilities.

Investors

COnovate’s funding portfolio includes $1.5 million from angel investors, including Milwaukee Venture Partners and Tundra Angels. The company has successfully secured government support through the U.S. Department of Energy and National Science Foundation grants, totaling approximately $3.56 million. Additional funding includes recent seed rounds aimed at accelerating commercialization efforts, with the company securing 60% of a $1 million round in their latest funding initiative.

Business Details

Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Website: https://COnovateinc.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/conovate/

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