Boston Metal

Tech researchers are suing the Trump administration over visa restrictions targeting foreign-born workers in online safety research, while climate tech companies are pivoting toward critical minerals production as support for decarbonization efforts weakens. Additionally, AI researchers are advancing world models as a new frontier in AI development beyond large language models.

Climate tech companies are shifting their business strategies to focus on critical minerals and metals production to survive in a political environment with reduced climate support. Boston Metal raised $75 million to expand into niobium and tantalum production, while Brimstone is pivoting to produce alumina alongside cement to align with US government priorities.

Boston Metal has raised $75 million to scale production of critical metals using its molten oxide electrolysis technology. The startup is shifting focus from steel production to higher-value metals like niobium, tantalum, and tin at its Brazilian facility, following earlier cash flow challenges from an industrial accident.