COnovate

About

COnovate, Inc. is a pioneering materials company based in Milwaukee, United States, founded in December 2016 as a spinoff from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. The company is redefining battery materials through the commercialization of its patented eCOphite™—the world’s first solid form of carbon monoxide (CO) at room temperature and pressure. This breakthrough material is engineered for use in lithium-ion (LIBs), offering a cost effective, drop-in additive for graphite anodes. COnovate’s mission is to address the critical limitations of incumbent battery anode materials, particularly graphite, which is predominantly sourced from China and associated with significant environmental, health, and supply chain risks. The company’s eCOphite composite is bio-sourced, utilizing feedstocks like lignin, which enables a localized and sustainable supply chain. This approach not only mitigates the environmental impact of mining and purification but also supports domestic manufacturing, aligning with global trends toward cleaner energy and supply chain resilience. The company’s business model centers on selling eCOphite powders directly to battery cell manufacturers, targeting applications where its material addresses the SOC detection challenges for LFP/graphite LIBs. Additional unique benefits—such as faster charging, higher lithium capacity, improved safety, and cold-temperature performance—offer immediate value. COnovate’s go-to-market strategy begins with energy storage systems, expanding into power tools, consumer electronics, and electric vehicles over time. Strategic partnerships with contract manufacturers allow COnovate to scale production rapidly leveraging existing equipment, with plans to transition to its own manufacturing capacity as demand grows. COnovate produces 50kga in-house and 10kg batches with external partners and is engaged with several top battery manufacturers for material validation. The company has received significant recognition, including selection as a finalist in the Shell New Energy Challenge, multiple awards from the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation, and participation in prestigious accelerator programs. Its team combines deep expertise in nanoscience, materials commercialization, and battery technology, led by founder and CEO Dr. Carol Hirschmugl, a physicist with over twenty years of relevant experience. The company’s impact extends beyond batteries. By transforming carbon-rich waste into high-performance anode material, COnovate’s process contributes to climate change mitigation, reducing lifecycle emissions and supporting circular economy principles. The solid carbon monoxide structure in eCOphite remains stable throughout the battery’s operational life, effectively sequestering CO₂ in a durable, recyclable form. COnovate’s commitment to environmental justice is reflected in its use of renewable feedstocks, domestic manufacturing, and partnerships that promote inclusive economic development. With a robust intellectual property portfolio—including exclusive licenses to foundational patents and ongoing trade secret protection—COnovate is positioned to become a leader in next-generation battery materials. Its commercialization roadmap is supported by over $3.6 million in non-equity funding and $1.7 million in equity investment, with plans for further fundraising to accelerate scaling and market entry. As the battery industry faces increasing pressure for sustainable, high-performance solutions, COnovate stands ready to deliver a domestic, eco-friendly alternative that meets the evolving needs of global energy storage markets.

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