Aclara Resources Inc. (“Aclara”) (TSX:ARA) has announced a significant funding commitment from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), which will invest up to $5 million in project development funds for Aclara’s Carina heavy rare earths project in Goiás, Brazil. According to the agreement, these funds may be converted into equity once the company completes a financing event exceeding $50 million, or a total of at least $75 million within a 12-month period.
The DFC investment is slated to primarily support a feasibility study for the Carina Project, initiated in July 2025 and expected to wrap up by the end of Q1 2026, conducted by Hatch Ltd. This study follows a pre-feasibility assessment scheduled for release in September 2025, with operations at the Carina Project projected to start in 2028.
The DFC, serving as the U.S. Government’s development finance institution, aims to mobilize capital for strategic investments globally. Aclara’s CEO, Ramón Barúa, expressed gratitude for the partnership, stating, “We are deeply honored to have been selected by the U.S. DFC as a recipient of the Project Development Funds. This investment not only validates Aclara’s strategy but also marks an essential step toward obtaining a larger commitment from DFC as we complete our feasibility study.”
Barúa highlighted the importance of securing sustainable and reliable sources of heavy rare earths, particularly for the United States, which relies on these materials for various critical applications. The DFC funds will be released throughout the feasibility study process, contingent upon meeting specific milestones, with no interest payable on the amount.
Aclara is also advancing its “mine-to-magnet” strategy, which focuses on creating a responsible supply chain for heavy rare earths. The company is progressing with key projects in Brazil and Chile while developing a U.S.-based separation facility. In Brazil, Aclara operates a mixed rare earth carbonate pilot plant that utilizes its innovative Circular Mineral Harvesting process, designed with sustainability at its core.
In addition to its projects in South America, Aclara has plans for a joint venture with Chilean steelmaker CAP S.A. to produce rare earth metals and alloys, essential for permanent magnet production. A strategic alliance with global magnet manufacturer Vacuumschmelze further positions Aclara as a leader in fully compliant “mine-to-magnet” supply chains.
As the Carina Project moves forward, Aclara looks to solidify its role in the global rare earths market, underscoring the strategic importance of these materials in supporting a resilient and sustainable supply chain.
