Altrove, a Paris-based startup, has raised $10 million in a seed round to develop AI-designed sustainable alternatives to critical materials, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign supply chains.

Target Information

Altrove, a Paris-based deep tech startup, is at the forefront of developing sustainable alternatives to critical materials, particularly those based on rare-earth elements (REEs). Founded in 2024 by Thibaud Martin and Dr. Joonatan Laulainen, Altrove leverages advanced artificial intelligence (AI), automated lab synthesis, and self-learning characterisation techniques to accelerate the creation and production of alternative materials. The company has already secured partnerships with over 12 industry giants in sectors such as automotive, energy, and heavy industry, aiming for rapid scale-up of its innovative materials.

Altrove has achieved significant technical milestones, including the development of rare-earth-free, cobalt-free magnetic materials for use in high-performance motors, as well as non-toxic, lead-free compounds for sensors and actuators. This progress underscores the firm’s commitment to addressing both industrial and ecological challenges, as it works toward achieving net-zero goals while enhancing industrial sovereignty.

Industry Overview

Europe's reliance on imports for critical materials poses a significant challenge to its industrial independence and environmental objectives. Currently, the continent imports nearly 100% of its lithium and virtually all potassium, essential in the production of electric ve