From Clean-Tech to Defense: How Magrathea's Unexpected Pivot Led to a Pentagon Partnership

My journey from a nature-loving child in rural Canada to a clean-tech entrepreneur in San Francisco has been driven by a deep passion for the planet. This passion led me to found Magrathea in 2022, aiming to revolutionize magnesium production from seawater—a process that promises zero CO2 emissions and reduces the need for terrestrial mining.

A Mission Redefined by Global Events

The Ukraine war unexpectedly reshaped our trajectory. Magnesium, a critical component in military hardware, became a priority for the U.S. and NATO. This demand led to a partnership with the U.S. Defense Department, funded by a Defense Production Act Title III grant. This pivot taught us a crucial lesson: successful technology must meet market demands.

The Expansive Market for Magnesium

Magnesium is indispensable in manufacturing, from electric vehicles to aerospace applications. Our technology builds on a proven process once used by Dow Chemical, enhanced with modern innovations. With five patent applications and trade secrets, our small team has achieved what larger companies couldn't in years.

The Urgent Need for Investment

While we've raised $12 million privately and secured a $28 million DOD partnership, scaling up requires billions in capital. We advocate for government grants and loan guarantees to make America a leader in critical minerals, a strategy China mastered decades ago.

Climate Solutions at the Core

Despite our defense pivot, climate solutions remain central. We believe in a future where national security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability are interconnected. America has the technology; now it needs the investment to scale it.

As we plan to establish the first commercial electrolytic magnesium facility in 50 years, our commitment to the planet remains unwavering. The journey may involve more pivots, but the focus will always be on building solutions that help our planet.