Connect with us

Technology

Government of Canada Supporting Critical Minerals Processing in Kingston

Published

on

KINGSTON, ON, Sept. 4, 2024 /CNW/ – From mining critical minerals to manufacturing cars and batteries, to charging and end-of-life recycling, the electric vehicle supply chain presents an enormous economic opportunity for Canadian workers and businesses. As the demand for critical minerals to power the clean economy is expected to double by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency, Canada is supporting strong domestic value chains for critical minerals and the clean technologies and energy sources they enable.

Today, Mark Gerretsen, Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands, on behalf of the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced almost $8.4 million in investments to Cyclic Materials Incorporated (Cyclic Materials) and Green Graphite Technologies Inc. (GGT) under the Critical Minerals Research, Development and Demonstration (CMRDD) program. This funding will support the development of a circular economy for rare earth elements for permanent magnets and the recycling of graphite for use in lithium-ion batteries here in Canada.

Cyclic Materials will operate a demonstration plant that produces high purity mixed rare earth oxide and a cobalt–nickel mixed hydroxide product from various recycled materials using its proprietary physical and hydrometallurgical processes. Rare earth elements are metals used in various applications, but the highest value application is permanent magnets, which are used in electric vehicle motors, wind turbines and many electronics, such as computers and cell phones. This project will validate operating conditions to support future scale and commercial operations. The project will promote a circular economy in Canada through the creation of a robust recycling process, address knowledge gaps in scaling and testing technology, and decrease the dependence on imported critical minerals. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing $4.9 million to Cyclic Materials for this initiative.    

GGT will demonstrate their GraphRenewTM technology’s ability to cost-effectively and sustainably recover and transform graphite from secondary sources into lithium-ion battery-grade graphite. The upgraded graphite will undergo battery cell performance testing, and larger quantities will be sent to major battery cell manufacturers to begin certification testing. Lithium-ion batteries main target use is EVs, but they are also used in solar panels and electronics, like cell phones and laptops. The project could address a significant knowledge gap in the lithium-ion battery industry while focusing on recycling batteries and upgrading spent graphite, enabling commercialization and improving circularity in the graphite value chain domestically. NRCan is providing $3.5 million to GGT for this initiative.

All across the country, Canadian workers and businesses are moving quickly to seize the economic opportunity that critical minerals, and the entire electric vehicle supply chain, present — now and into the future. Investments like today’s will create good jobs and build a strong economy in Kingston, Ontario and beyond.

Quotes

“The exploration, mining, processing, advanced manufacturing and recycling of critical minerals represent an enormous economic opportunity for our country. Investments in these projects focus on increasing innovation in technology, building expertise and filling knowledge gaps in Canada, importantly with the dynamic and experienced clean tech sector here in Kingston. I am very pleased to announce projects that demonstrate how Kingston continues to prove itself on the domestic and global fronts as a clean tech center for technology development and commercialization.” 

Mark Gerretsen, Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands

“Across critical mineral value chains — from upstream exploration and extraction to downstream processing, manufacturing and recycling — the battery value chain holds incredible economic opportunity for Canada and Canadians. New technologies will help address gaps in our world-leading supply chain, seize the economic opportunity presented to us, keep Canadian industry competitive in a rapidly evolving global context, and create jobs — now and for future generations. This is important news for Kingston, and beyond.”

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

“We are honoured and excited to receive this financial investment from NRCan. Rare earth materials are fundamental to the world’s most critical infrastructure, and it’s essential that we collectively work on creating a more resilient supply chain while reducing emissions and improving traditional mining practices. We are eager to partner with NRCan to further Canada’s clean energy goals by scaling up our technology.”

Ahmad Ghahreman
CEO, Cyclic Materials Inc.

“It’s crucial to understand and demand that the materials needed to produce EVs be sustainably produced. We don’t want to solve one problem and end up creating several new ones. As a chemical engineer and President of Green Graphite Technologies, my co-founders and I are proud to be commercializing a technology that will make a meaningful difference to our society and demonstrate that Canadian companies are leading the way to a sustainable future. Thank you, Natural Resources Canada, for your support, which is key to advancing the rapid commercialization of our patented game-changing technology.”

Gillian Holcroft
CEO, Green Graphite Technologies Inc.

Quick Facts

The Government of Canada has identified 34 critical minerals, 29 of which are also found on Ontario’s Critical Minerals List.Ontario produced approximately $3.5 billion in critical minerals in 2020, with nickel and platinum group metals having the highest production.Canada has some of the largest known reserves and resources of rare earths, estimated at over 14 million tonnes in 2021.Budget 2022 provided $3.8 billion over eight years to implement the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy. The funding covers a range of industrial activities, from geoscience and exploration to mineral processing, manufacturing and recycling applications, including support for research, development and technological deployment.Funding for these projects comes from NRCan’s Critical Minerals Research, Development and Demonstration Program (CMRDD). The CMRDD is part of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy and aims to support the development of innovative processing technologies for the critical minerals industry, which will help advance Canadian mining projects toward production.Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy is part of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy, which advances Canada’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.In 2024, Canada surpassed China to take the number-one spot as the country with the most potential to build a reliable electric vehicle supply chain.

Associated Links

Cyclic Materials IncorporatedGreen Graphite TechnologiesCritical Minerals Research, Development and Demonstration ProgramCanadian Critical Minerals StrategyOntario’s Critical Minerals Strategy 2022–2027: Unlocking potential to drive economic recovery and prosperityGovernment of Canada Launches Second Call for Proposals for Critical Minerals Research Development and Demonstration ProgramMinister Wilkinson Releases Canada’s $3.8-billion Critical Minerals Strategy to Seize Generational Opportunity for Clean, Inclusive Growth

Follow us on LinkedIn

SOURCE Natural Resources Canada

Continue Reading

Technology

Dan Gilbert Makes Historic Gift to Detroit, Pledges $1 Billion to Create New Nonprofit to Transform Detroit’s Renaissance Center and East Riverfront

Published

on

By

A new nonprofit will redevelop, own and operate the landmark and surrounding east riverfront district, with all surplus proceeds invested in the community

DETROIT, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Rocket Companies and Bedrock, today pledged approximately $1 billion in development capital to form a new nonprofit organization that will redevelop, own and operate the Renaissance Center and surrounding east riverfront district.

Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Rocket Companies, today pledged approximately $1 billion to create a nonprofit.

As a result of this philanthropic gift, believed to be the largest contribution to a non-profit redevelopment initiative in the history of American cities, Gilbert and his companies will receive no profits from the redevelopment of the Renaissance Center and 35-acre waterfront district. Gilbert’s contribution will not be repaid.

The nonprofit will develop, own and operate the property for civic betterment, guided by the dual missions of community benefit and long-term sustainability. After completion of the project, revenue will first cover operating expenses, debt payments, reserves and necessary reinvestment in the properties over time. Any surplus funds will go to support Detroiters and the community.

“The Renaissance Center is a symbol of Detroit, and the riverfront is one of Detroit’s most treasured assets,” said Gilbert. “We all share the goals of bringing new life to the Renaissance Center, of building a thriving riverfront district for all to enjoy, and of maximizing positive community impact. I cannot think of better way to accomplish these goals than through a nonprofit organization dedicated to this mission in perpetuity.” 

This new pledge builds on Gilbert’s long history of philanthropic support for Detroit.

In 2021, the Gilbert Family Foundation and Rocket Community Fund announced a $500 million, 10-year commitment to strengthen Detroit neighborhoods. Through the end of 2025, the organizations have invested more than $100 million in housing stability, including efforts to prevent foreclosure and eviction, repair homes and expand homeownership. Another $183 million has been invested to support small businesses, expand economic opportunity, and support neighborhood parks, the arts and community spaces. Together, the organizations have invested nearly $300 million of the initial commitment, putting them ahead of pace toward their goal.

In 2023, Gilbert Family Foundation committed nearly $375 million to bring Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, the top rehabilitative care center in the nation, to Detroit and to establish the Nick Gilbert Neurofibromatosis Research Institute. These projects are part of Henry Ford Health’s Future of Health, a transformational campus expansion in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood. In addition to these philanthropic gifts, his family office, ROCK, has invested millions in Detroit and Cleveland.

This new organization will extend Gilbert’s philanthropic commitments to Detroit’s waterfront. The vision includes transforming the Renaissance Center and surrounding 35-acre district, now consisting largely of surface parking lots, into the best, broadly accessible, family-friendly waterfront destination in the country—providing a series of new amenities for Detroiters and creating a new engine of tourism and growth for the city. The redevelopment will include affordable housing, dedicated space for Detroit-based small businesses, and 18-acres of programmed and publicly accessible civic space. It is anticipated to create more than 8,000 local construction jobs and 2,600 permanent jobs. The 30-year direct fiscal benefit to the City of Detroit is estimated to be $301.5 million, and on top of that, the district is anticipated to generate $3.03 billion in new visitor spend for the city over the same period. 

“What Dan Gilbert is announcing today is truly historic,” said Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield. “This was already the largest, most transformative investment ever pledged in Detroit and one of the largest ever in any American city. For Dan to make a billion-dollar investment – and to guarantee that only the city and its people can benefit – truly shows the depth of his generosity and of his commitment to Detroit.”

The nonprofit will be structured as a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization focused on civic improvement and community well-being. Reverend Dr. Wendell Anthony, president of the Detroit Branch of the NAACP, will serve on the inaugural Board of Directors and help lead recruitment of a diverse and experienced board to oversee the nonprofit. Bill Emerson, former CEO of Rocket Companies and member of several of the region’s most prominent non-profit boards, will also serve on the board to help lead the organization through its formative stages.

Bedrock will provide project management services to the nonprofit at no cost, bringing its expertise and continuity to the redevelopment project.

“The day has come and a new era has begun. The Iconic Renaissance Center will serve as a historic marker now reimagined and reinvented into what I like to call Renaissance II,” said Reverend Dr. Anthony.  This is a historic, unprecedented and never before witnessed in any community pledge that has now been made. Dan Gilbert is openly establishing a new model for community development not only for Detroit but for cities across the nation. This is a true legacy cemented in the soil of Detroit by a true Philanthropist.”

The announcement builds on General Motors’ 2024 commitment to donate any profits it receives from the redevelopment toward education in Detroit. Additional details about the nonprofit will be announced as further steps are taken in its formation. Contributions to 501(c)(4) organizations are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

“Dan Gilbert has played an essential role in the continued revitalization of Detroit and its downtown, and this new organization is the latest example of his deep and lasting commitment to our city,” said General Motors President Mark Reuss. “It will build upon the progress GM has already made in helping create the #1 ranked riverwalk in the nation and will set up the east riverfront for long-term success to be enjoyed by citizens and visitors alike for generations to come.”

About the Renaissance Center and East Riverfront Project

The redevelopment of the iconic Renaissance Center represents of the most complex and consequential adaptive reuse projects ever undertaken, combined with one of the nation’s most ambitious community-driven waterfront redevelopment initiatives. The $2.2 billion development plan includes the reimagination of the Renaissance Center and the comprehensive transformation of the 35-acre east riverfront district, consisting primarily of vacant surface parking lots, with the goal of creating the best, broadly accessible, family-friendly waterfront destination in the country. More information about the Renaissance Center and east riverfront project may be found at DRF.dev.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dan-gilbert-makes-historic-gift-to-detroit-pledges-1-billion-to-create-new-nonprofit-to-transform-detroits-renaissance-center-and-east-riverfront-302912867.html

SOURCE ROCK

Continue Reading

Technology

Dan Gilbert Makes Historic Gift to Detroit, Pledges $1 Billion to Create New Nonprofit to Transform Detroit’s Renaissance Center and East Riverfront

Published

on

By

A new nonprofit will redevelop, own and operate the landmark and surrounding east riverfront district, with all surplus proceeds invested in the community

DETROIT, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Rocket Companies and Bedrock, today pledged approximately $1 billion in development capital to form a new nonprofit organization that will redevelop, own and operate the Renaissance Center and surrounding east riverfront district.

Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Rocket Companies, today pledged approximately $1 billion to create a nonprofit.

As a result of this philanthropic gift, believed to be the largest contribution to a non-profit redevelopment initiative in the history of American cities, Gilbert and his companies will receive no profits from the redevelopment of the Renaissance Center and 35-acre waterfront district. Gilbert’s contribution will not be repaid.

The nonprofit will develop, own and operate the property for civic betterment, guided by the dual missions of community benefit and long-term sustainability. After completion of the project, revenue will first cover operating expenses, debt payments, reserves and necessary reinvestment in the properties over time. Any surplus funds will go to support Detroiters and the community.

“The Renaissance Center is a symbol of Detroit, and the riverfront is one of Detroit’s most treasured assets,” said Gilbert. “We all share the goals of bringing new life to the Renaissance Center, of building a thriving riverfront district for all to enjoy, and of maximizing positive community impact. I cannot think of better way to accomplish these goals than through a nonprofit organization dedicated to this mission in perpetuity.” 

This new pledge builds on Gilbert’s long history of philanthropic support for Detroit.

In 2021, the Gilbert Family Foundation and Rocket Community Fund announced a $500 million, 10-year commitment to strengthen Detroit neighborhoods. Through the end of 2025, the organizations have invested more than $100 million in housing stability, including efforts to prevent foreclosure and eviction, repair homes and expand homeownership. Another $183 million has been invested to support small businesses, expand economic opportunity, and support neighborhood parks, the arts and community spaces. Together, the organizations have invested nearly $300 million of the initial commitment, putting them ahead of pace toward their goal.

In 2023, Gilbert Family Foundation committed nearly $375 million to bring Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, the top rehabilitative care center in the nation, to Detroit and to establish the Nick Gilbert Neurofibromatosis Research Institute. These projects are part of Henry Ford Health’s Future of Health, a transformational campus expansion in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood. In addition to these philanthropic gifts, his family office, ROCK, has invested millions in Detroit and Cleveland.

This new organization will extend Gilbert’s philanthropic commitments to Detroit’s waterfront. The vision includes transforming the Renaissance Center and surrounding 35-acre district, now consisting largely of surface parking lots, into the best, broadly accessible, family-friendly waterfront destination in the country—providing a series of new amenities for Detroiters and creating a new engine of tourism and growth for the city. The redevelopment will include affordable housing, dedicated space for Detroit-based small businesses, and 18-acres of programmed and publicly accessible civic space. It is anticipated to create more than 8,000 local construction jobs and 2,600 permanent jobs. The 30-year direct fiscal benefit to the City of Detroit is estimated to be $301.5 million, and on top of that, the district is anticipated to generate $3.03 billion in new visitor spend for the city over the same period. 

“What Dan Gilbert is announcing today is truly historic,” said Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield. “This was already the largest, most transformative investment ever pledged in Detroit and one of the largest ever in any American city. For Dan to make a billion-dollar investment – and to guarantee that only the city and its people can benefit – truly shows the depth of his generosity and of his commitment to Detroit.”

The nonprofit will be structured as a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization focused on civic improvement and community well-being. Reverend Dr. Wendell Anthony, president of the Detroit Branch of the NAACP, will serve on the inaugural Board of Directors and help lead recruitment of a diverse and experienced board to oversee the nonprofit. Bill Emerson, former CEO of Rocket Companies and member of several of the region’s most prominent non-profit boards, will also serve on the board to help lead the organization through its formative stages.

Bedrock will provide project management services to the nonprofit at no cost, bringing its expertise and continuity to the redevelopment project.

“The day has come and a new era has begun. The Iconic Renaissance Center will serve as a historic marker now reimagined and reinvented into what I like to call Renaissance II,” said Reverend Dr. Anthony.  This is a historic, unprecedented and never before witnessed in any community pledge that has now been made. Dan Gilbert is openly establishing a new model for community development not only for Detroit but for cities across the nation. This is a true legacy cemented in the soil of Detroit by a true Philanthropist.”

The announcement builds on General Motors’ 2024 commitment to donate any profits it receives from the redevelopment toward education in Detroit. Additional details about the nonprofit will be announced as further steps are taken in its formation. Contributions to 501(c)(4) organizations are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

“Dan Gilbert has played an essential role in the continued revitalization of Detroit and its downtown, and this new organization is the latest example of his deep and lasting commitment to our city,” said General Motors President Mark Reuss. “It will build upon the progress GM has already made in helping create the #1 ranked riverwalk in the nation and will set up the east riverfront for long-term success to be enjoyed by citizens and visitors alike for generations to come.”

About the Renaissance Center and East Riverfront Project

The redevelopment of the iconic Renaissance Center represents of the most complex and consequential adaptive reuse projects ever undertaken, combined with one of the nation’s most ambitious community-driven waterfront redevelopment initiatives. The $2.2 billion development plan includes the reimagination of the Renaissance Center and the comprehensive transformation of the 35-acre east riverfront district, consisting primarily of vacant surface parking lots, with the goal of creating the best, broadly accessible, family-friendly waterfront destination in the country. More information about the Renaissance Center and east riverfront project may be found at DRF.dev.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dan-gilbert-makes-historic-gift-to-detroit-pledges-1-billion-to-create-new-nonprofit-to-transform-detroits-renaissance-center-and-east-riverfront-302912867.html

SOURCE ROCK

Continue Reading

Technology

TilePix Expands into Select Walmart Stores Nationwide with New Nail-Free Wall Décor Frames & Accessories

Published

on

By

TilePix’s first-ever in-store launch introduces new TilePix frame sizes and the Super Nail hanging solution, alongside the Walmart-exclusive 6×6 TilePix Mini launch

NEW YORK, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TilePix, the magnetic, nail-free wall décor brand, today announces its first nationwide in-store product launch at Walmart. Now rolling out on Walmart.com and in select stores across the U.S., the expanded assortment of TilePix wall décor and hanging products begin hitting shelves on October 19th, with the full in-store rollout expected to be complete by the end of October. The launch marks a major expansion of TilePix’s retail presence.

The launch brings three new additions to Walmart shoppers:

TilePix blank magnetic frames in 8×10, 11×14 and 12×12 sizesThe Super Nail by TilePix, a new universal nail-free hanging solution for frames up to three poundsThe TilePix Mini, a new Walmart-exclusive 6×6 magnetic photo tile

For the first time, Walmart customers can purchase TilePix’s new 8×10, 11×14 and 12×12 blank magnetic frames on store shelves in addition to the online assortment to open and add their own photos, artwork or designs. Customers can even print photos through Walmart Photo and create a custom gallery wall in one trip. Each frame uses TilePix’s magnetic backers, allowing consumers to peel, stick and hang TilePix frames without nails, tools or wall damage. As always, the brand’s re-stickable magnetic wall pads make TilePix easy to move, swap and rearrange. The new blank frames also all come with a built-in kickstand, giving consumers the option to display each frame on a wall or tabletop.

Also making its debut at Walmart is The Super Nail by TilePix, a universal nail-free hanging solution designed to hold virtually any small picture frame or lightweight wall art up to three pounds. TilePix’s Super Nail attaches to the wall through a peel-and-stick application and features an adjustable hanger that lets users shift frame placement without starting over. Its slim design stays hidden behind the frame, giving consumers the flexibility to straighten, reposition and restyle their wall décor without traditional nails or tools. Available in one or two-pack options, the Super Nail brings the innovation behind TilePix’s traditional frames to any frame 3 pounds or lighter.

Finally, this month, TilePix introduces its smallest frame yet, the TilePix Mini is a 6×6 photo tile, hung nail-free with magnets, available exclusively at Walmart. The smaller format brings the flexibility of TilePix to a new scale, making it easy to turn favorite photos and memories into nail-free wall displays in bedrooms, dorms, apartments, kids’ rooms and smaller spaces.

“This nationwide expansion with Walmart marks a pivotal moment for Tracer as we evolve TilePix from a standalone magnetic tile into a full nail-free wall décor ecosystem,” says Tracer Imaging CEO and Founder Steven Spiro. “Whether framing a print, hanging existing art with the Super Nail, or styling a space with the new TilePix Mini, we are eliminating the friction of traditional home décor and making personalized design accessible to everyone.”

The Walmart expansion comes ahead of the 2026 holiday season, giving shoppers new ways to personalize their homes and gift their favorite memories. TilePix will support the launch with a holiday campaign centered on DIY creativity, product education and style-driven inspiration, showing how consumers can use the new assortment to make their walls feel more personal without making their decorating decisions permanent.

The Walmart launch marks a major next step for TilePix: not only is the brand available at retail, but it’s moving beyond its original magnetic photo tiles and into a broader ecosystem of flexible wall décor and hanging solutions. Whether consumers are creating a personalized gallery wall with TilePix frames, hanging an existing frame with the Super Nail or building a display with the new TilePix Mini, each product is designed around the same idea: your walls should be as easy to change as your style.

Beginning October 19th, TilePix 8×10, 11×14 and 12×12 blank magnetic frames and TilePix Super Nail will be available on shelves at more than 3,000 Walmart stores nationwide. The TilePix Mini, the new Walmart-exclusive 6×6 magnetic photo tile, will be available through Walmart.com and on in-store kiosks for shipping and in-store pickup.

For more information, visit Walmart’s dedicated TilePix page HERE.

GET SOCIAL WITH US:
Instagram: @tile.pix @walmart
TikTok: @tilepix @walmart

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Sabrina Levine Communications
Nicole Waldman | nicole@sabrinalevinepr.com | (805) 404-8152
Maxie Katsikas | maxie@sabrinalevinepr.com | (917) 991-3750

ABOUT TILEPIX
TilePix is a wall décor brand making it easier to personalize, hang and rearrange walls without nails, tools or damage. Launched in 2022, TilePix is best known for its patented magnetic hanging system, which allows consumers to peel, stick, hang and rearrange their wall décor as their spaces and styles change.

TilePix offers customizable photo tiles, magnetic frames and other wall décor products designed to make decorating more flexible and personal. The brand also partners with artists and designers, including Jonathan Adler, to bring curated artwork to its growing wall décor assortment.

TilePix is a brand of Tracer Imaging, a photo and printing company with more than 20 years of experience developing products and technology for major retailers.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tilepix-expands-into-select-walmart-stores-nationwide-with-new-nail-free-wall-decor-frames–accessories-302912883.html

SOURCE TilePix

Continue Reading

Trending