Aclara Secures Funding from Corfo's Innovation High-Tech Program for Artificial Intelligence Project

Aclara Secures Funding from Corfo's Innovation High-Tech Program for Artificial Intelligence Project

Aclara Resources Inc. ("Aclara" or the "Company") (TSX:ARA) is pleased to announce that its Chilean subsidiary, REE Uno, has been awarded a research, development and innovation grant of US$ 730,000 from the Innovation Management Division of the Chilean Economic Development Agency ("CORFO") to implement and further develop a new exploration technology using artificial intelligence ("AI") models. Combined with Aclara's own investment, the initiative will have total funding of approximately US$ 1.0 million

This initiative harnesses advanced multi-variable machine learning models to analyze and interpret complex data, revolutionizing rare earth element ("REE") exploration, particularly associated with ionic clay deposits. The algorithms are designed to process large volumes of geological and geospatial data generated both internally as well as acquired from third parties, all of which is stored and organized within a centralized database developed by Aclara.

This AI system enables real-time analysis of the databases, while simultaneously integrating field data developed by Aclara's Exploration Team. The combination of powerful data processing, adjusted by geological interpretation capabilities, allows the Company to thoroughly evaluate large areas of land for potential REE mineralization hosted in ionic clays. By rapidly processing very large datasets, this technology aims to identify high potential exploration targets while optimizing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impact.

Ramón Barúa, Aclara's CEO, stated:

"Aclara has long championed innovation and has been using AI tools for some time. We are convinced that the early adoption of AI is critical to developing a sustainable competitive advantage. The CORFO funding will allow us to increase the speed of development of a specific AI model to generate high potential exploration targets. Although Aclara already owns and is currently developing two world-class ionic clay deposits, the Company remains committed to greenfield exploration to add new assets to its portfolio. Currently, our Data Science Team collaborates closely with our Exploration Team, to advance the in-house developed AI models. These models have already successfully identified and defined exploration targets within timeframes and costs that were unthinkable without these high-tech tools. We are very excited about the possibilities that open-up to Aclara through the use of AI technologies."

About Aclara

Aclara Resources Inc. (TSX: ARA) is a development-stage company that focuses on heavy rare earth mineral resources hosted in Ion-Adsorption Clay deposits. The Company's rare earth mineral resource development projects include the Penco Module in the Bio-Bio Region of Chile and the Carina Module in the State of Goiás, Brazil.

Aclara's rare earth extraction process offers several environmentally attractive features. Circular mineral harvesting does not involve blasting, crushing, or milling, and therefore does not generate tailings and eliminates the need for a tailings storage facility. The extraction process developed by Aclara minimizes water consumption through high levels of water recirculation made possible by the inclusion of a water treatment facility within its patented process design. The ionic clay feedstock is amenable to leaching with a common fertilizer main reagent, ammonium sulfate. In addition to the development of the Penco Module and the Carina Module, the Company will continue to identify and evaluate opportunities to increase future production of heavy rare earths through greenfield exploration programs and the development of additional projects within the Company's current concessions in Brazil, Chile, and Peru.

Aclara has decided to vertically integrate its rare earths concentrate production towards the manufacturing of rare earths alloys. The Company has established a U.S.-based subsidiary, Aclara Technologies Inc., which will focus on developing technologies for rare earth separation, metals, and alloys. Additionally, the Company is advancing its metals and alloys business through a joint venture with CAP S.A., leveraging CAP's extensive expertise in metal refining and special ferro-alloyed steels.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects the Company's current expectations regarding future events, including statements with regard to the Company's corporate strategy; expectations as to activities conducted in connection with its exploration activities and the success, effect or outcomes resulting therefrom; the development of new artificial intelligence tools and models and the related studies in relation thereto; and plans as to expenditures, investments, and use of capital and financial resources in the near and long term. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated as of March 22, 2024 filed on the Company's SEDAR profile. Actual results and timing could differ materially from those projected herein. Unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise indicates, the forward-looking information contained in this news release is provided as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required under applicable securities laws.

For further information, please contact:

Ramón Barúa Costa
Chief Executive Officer
investorrelations@aclara-re.com

SOURCE: Aclara Resources Inc.



View the original press release on accesswire.com

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Aclara Receives Support from the U.S. Department of Commerce

Aclara Receives Support from the U.S. Department of Commerce

Aclara Resources Inc. ("Aclara" or the "Company") (TSX:ARA) is pleased to announce that it is working with the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration, through its SelectUSA program, to conduct a study aimed at identifying the optimal site for Aclara's planned separation facility in the United States (the "Location Study

The SelectUSA program fosters business investment that supports economic development and job creation in the United States. To date, SelectUSA has facilitated over $250 billion in investments, creating or retaining more than 230,000 jobs across the country.

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Toronto Stock Exchange, Aclara Resources Inc., The View from the C-Suite

Ramon Barua, Chief Executive Officer, Aclara Resources Inc. ("Aclara Resources" or the "Company") (TSX: ARA), shares their Company's story in an interview with TMX Group.

The View From The C-Suite video interview series highlights the unique perspectives of listed companies on Toronto Stock Exchange and TSX Venture Exchange. Videos provide insight into how company executives think in the current business environment. To see the latest View From The C-Suite visit https://www.tsx.com/en/c-suite

About Aclara Resources Inc. (TSX: ARA)

Aclara Resources Inc. (TSX: ARA) is a development-stage company that focuses on heavy rare earth mineral resources hosted in Ion-Adsorption Clay deposits. The Company's rare earth mineral resource development projects include the Penco Module in the Bio-Bio Region of Chile and the Carina Module in the State of Goiás, Brazil.

Aclara's rare earth extraction process offers several environmentally attractive features. Circular mineral harvesting does not involve blasting, crushing, or milling, and therefore does not generate tailings and eliminates the need for a tailing's storage facility. The extraction process developed by Aclara minimizes water consumption through high levels of water recirculation made possible by the inclusion of a water treatment facility within its patented process design. The ionic clay feedstock is amenable to leaching with a common fertilizer main reagent, ammonium sulfate. In addition to the development of the Penco Module and the Carina Module, the Company will continue to identify and evaluate opportunities to increase future production of heavy rare earths through greenfield exploration programs and the development of additional projects within the Company's current concessions in Brazil, Chile, and Peru.

Aclara has decided to vertically integrate its rare earths concentrate production towards the manufacturing of rare earths alloys. The Company has established a U.S.-based subsidiary, Aclara Technologies Inc., which will focus on developing technologies for rare earth separation, metals, and alloys. Additionally, the Company is advancing its metals and alloys business through a joint venture with CAP S.A., leveraging CAP's extensive expertise in metal refining and special ferro-alloyed steels.

Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

To learn more, visit: https://www.aclara-re.com/

SOURCE Toronto Stock Exchange

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ramon Barua
Chief Executive Officer
investorrelations@aclara-re.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/227819

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Aclara Announces Update on its Rare Earths Separation Project

Aclara Announces Update on its Rare Earths Separation Project

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Update Regarding the Penco Module Permitting Process

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Aclara Resources Inc. ("Aclara" or "Company") (TSX:ARA) informs that the evaluation process of the Penco Module's Environmental Impact Assessment ("EIA") continues and has now formally received from the Environmental Service Assessment ("SEA") the consolidated report with the observations and questions ("ICSARA") received from the different agencies involved in the evaluation process

The Company is diligently working to file its response addressing questions and observations received by the end of Q1, 2025. The Company is committed to working with the SEA throughout the assessment and review process.

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Aclara's Penco Module included in Chile's strategic Industrial Strengthening Plan for the Biobío region

Aclara's Penco Module included in Chile's strategic Industrial Strengthening Plan for the Biobío region

Aclara Resources Inc. ("Aclara" or "Company") (TSX:ARA) is pleased to announce that the Chilean government has unveiled a comprehensive "Industrial Strengthening Plan" for the Biobío region. This plan highlights the Penco Module as one of the key projects selected to bolster the region's future economic growth

The Industrial Strengthening Plan aims to revitalize the Biobío economic landscape, which has faced challenges due to slow economic activity and lack of consistent new investments over the past two decades. Key objectives include accelerating private investment and enhancing the capabilities of institutions responsible for investment approvals. Aclara's Penco Module is among 25 large-scale projects featured, representing a combined potential investment of US$ 6.8 billion and the creation of up to 5,000 jobs during their operational phases, significantly advancing regional development.

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Vibrant coral reef with colorful fish swimming in clear blue water.

Deep-Sea Crisis: Can the ISA Regain Control of the Deep Ocean?

The world’s oceans are increasingly becoming an important new frontier in the geopolitical and economic race for critical minerals, with countries fast-tracking plans for deep-sea mining.

Meanwhile, the global body tasked with regulating such activities is struggling to keep pace.

As sovereign states ramp up efforts to access seabed resources crucial for clean energy and defense technologies, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) finds itself sidelined — raising alarms among environmentalists and nations alike.

Stoking these tensions, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier this month with the aim of expediting deep-sea mineral extraction in both national and international waters.

The directive, which calls for faster permitting and exploration, bypasses multilateral negotiations at the ISA and uses a 1980 domestic statute — the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act — to justify the unilateral action.

The order “establishes the US as a global leader in seabed mineral exploration and development both within and beyond national jurisdiction," signaling Washington’s intent to secure independence from Chinese mineral supply chains.

But the move has drawn fierce criticism from multiple fronts.

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Australia flag puzzle piece fitting into a white puzzle.

Opportunity or Overreach: Is Australia Making the Right Moves for Critical Minerals?

Australia is currently betting big on critical minerals.

Government support is growing, with the country positioning itself as a key player in the global energy transition; however, some are convinced that the nation is rushing into a crowded race.

The Albanese government recently vowed to establish a critical minerals strategic reserve upon re-election, pledging an initial investment of A$1.2 billion. In an April 24 announcement, the government outlines that the reserve would build on the Australian government's extensive investment in critical minerals through two new mechanisms.

Does an Australian critical minerals reserve make sense?

National offtake agreements are one of the planned mechanisms. These would allow the government to acquire agreed-upon volumes of critical minerals from commercial projects via voluntary agreements, or to establish an option to purchase at a given price, holding security over these assets as part of the strategic reserve.

The second mechanism outlined is selective stockpiling, wherein the government promises to establish Australian stockpiles of certain key critical minerals produced under offtake agreements as required.

Following the government's announcement, Tania Constable, CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia, published a piece on the move, questioning whether a critical minerals strategic reserve is the best approach.

In her view, the initiative is “certainly not without domestic risk,” and “may impact the commercial viability of operations through continued downward pressure on commodity prices.”

She recommends that Australia focus on fundamentals that will give it back an edge over other mining nations.

“That means lower energy prices, a windback of draconian industrial relations laws, and faster environmental approval times," Constable's statement reads.

Australia's current critical minerals strategy

Australia’s current Critical Minerals Strategy is focused on the period from 2023 to 2030, and is centred on developing strategically important projects, attracting and unlocking investment and promoting the country as a world leader in environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance.

It also includes a commitment to reviewing the country's critical minerals and strategic materials list every three years, updating it in response to global strategic, technological, economic and policy changes.

As of writing, 31 critical minerals were recognised in Australia, plus six strategic materials.

AU$4 billion in total commitments are covered under the strategy, including AU$2 billion from the Critical Minerals Facility via Export Finance Australia, and an extra AU$2 billion in 2024.

In an article in the Australian, Lynas Rare Earths (ASX:LYC,OTC Pink:LYSCF) CEO Amanda Lacaze criticises the government's critical minerals policy, arguing that it is “flawed and uneconomical.”

She notes that even a significant portion of the fund wouldn't match Lynas' annual production costs. Lynas is recognised as the largest separated rare earths producer outside of China.

In a separate article written by the Australia-China Relations Institute, James Laurenceson, director at the University of Technology Sydney, says that the current strategy may be too optimistic.

In his view, the real problem is that Australia’s strategic partners aren’t delivering on their end of the supply chain further downstream. His recommendation is to focus on upstream activities like mining and processing, where Australia has a clear comparative advantage.

Critical minerals deals and funding heat up in Australia

Since the announcement of the Critical Minerals Strategy, Australia's critical minerals industry has seen various developments in mergers and acquisitions, as well as government project funding.

Notable M&A activity includes mining giant Rio Tinto's (ASX:RIO,NYSE:RIO,LSE:RIO) acquisition of Arcadium Lithium, first announced as an all-cash transaction for US$6.7 billion in October 2024.

Another is the AU$560 million deal between Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS,OTC Pink:PILBF) and Latin Resources, made legally effective last January. The transaction gives Pilbara ownership of Latin’s Salinas lithium project in Brazil.

On top of these acquisitions are government funding to accelerate critical minerals projects.

Under the Critical Minerals Facility, Iluka Resources (ASX:ILU,OTC Pink:ILKAF) received AU$400 million from the Australian government in December, granted for the Enneaba rare earths refinery.

According to Iluka, the refinery will establish Western Australia as a strategic hub for the downstream processing of rare earths. It is expected to produce neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, terbium and more starting in 2027.

Alongside these moves, Australia is strengthening its rare earths strategy.

On February 12, Australia passed the Critical Minerals Production Tax Incentive, which will provide a refundable tax credit on 10 percent of eligible costs associated with the production of critical minerals and rare earths.

“The incentives are valued at AU$7 billion over the decade,” said Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King.

“The passing of this legislation is a historic moment for the resources industry and a big deal for resource states like Western Australia and Queensland,” she added. “By processing more of these minerals here in Australia we will create jobs and diversify global supply chains.”

Will history repeat itself?

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) states in an article that the critical minerals reserve would be an important step in securing Australia’s economic future, but warns that the nation must learn from “past mistakes.”

It points to the Pinjarra gallium refinery in Western Australia in its May 2 statement, saying that it represented one of the boldest critical minerals initiatives outside China in the late 1980s.

“Designed to produce 50 tonnes of gallium per year, it promised to place Australia at the heart of the global gallium and rare earths value chain, just as the modern world’s appetite for advanced materials was accelerating.”

However, in only a few years, Pinjarra encountered delays due to environmental permits; meanwhile, gallium prices crashed due to oversupply and China’s competitive spirit strengthened.

“Australia’s lack of midstream and downstream refining capacity added crushing costs and complexity,” ASPI explains in its commentary. “In short, Pinjarra had the ambition — but not the resilience — to withstand the inevitable shocks from operating in niche, high-risk commodity markets.”

The question ASPI poses now is: Can Australia guarantee that the same mistake will not be repeated?

According to the institute, Australia has the resources and strategic location.

“It must now summon the strategic patience and coordinated leadership needed to build true critical minerals sovereignty," ASPI concludes.

Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time news updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Gabrielle de la Cruz, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Map closeup of Ontario with a red pin marking Albany.

Ontario Tables Sweeping Bill to Restrict Foreign Access to Critical Minerals

Ontario has introduced legislation aimed at tightening control over the province’s mining and energy sectors by limiting foreign involvement, fast-tracking resource development and scaling back species-at-risk protections.

The Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025, also known as Bill 5, was announced at the Toronto Stock Exchange on April 17 by Premier Doug Ford and Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce.

According to the government, the new bill is designed to “safeguard Ontario’s critical minerals, secure the province’s energy infrastructure, and reduce regulatory bottlenecks that hamper development.”

“With President Trump taking direct aim at our economy, it cannot be business as usual,” Ford declared during the announcement, referring to recent US moves to prioritize domestic supply chains for critical resources.

The proposed law would grant the Ontario government sweeping new powers over the mining sector.

These would include the ability to suspend or revoke mining claims, deny transfers or leases and limit access to Ontario’s Mining Lands Administration System — particularly for entities linked to “hostile foreign regimes.”

It would also allow the government to restrict foreign participation in the province’s energy sector.

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Quarterly Activities/Appendix 5B Cash Flow Report

Quarterly Activities/Appendix 5B Cash Flow Report

American Rare Earths Limited (ARR:AU) has announced Quarterly Activities/Appendix 5B Cash Flow Report

Download the PDF here.

Gavel, book and Australian banknotes.

Western Australia to Fund 77 Mining Projects Through Exploration Grants

Western Australia’s Exploration Incentive Scheme (EIS) has announced another round of successful applicants.

In an April 23 statement, Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael said 77 projects will benefit from total funding of AU$11.2 million. The projects are divided into three EIS programs: Round 31 of the Co-funded Drilling Program (CDP), Series 8 of the Energy Analysis Program (EAP) and Venture 2 of the Co-funded Geophysics Program (CGP).

A total of AU$7.8 million will be awarded as drill funding to 49 projects, while AU$3.2 million will be spread across 25 geophysics ventures. The remaining AU$200,000 will be divided between three projects under the EAP.

"The EIS plays a pivotal role in overcoming the financial barriers that often prevent early-stage projects from reaching their full potential, and we are committed to ensuring these opportunities prosper,” Michael said.

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Two Canadian flags with blurred lights in the background.

Canadian Election Candidates Unveil Plans to Fast Track Mining and Energy Projects

With Canada’s energy and critical minerals sectors at a crossroads, Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has unveiled a sweeping plan to overhaul the country’s resource project approvals process, fast tracking 10 major projects and pledging over US$1 billion in funding to open up Ontario’s mineral-rich Ring of Fire region.

At a Monday (April 7) press conference held in Terrace, BC, Poilievre introduced his “One-and-Done” policy — a streamlined permitting system aimed at eliminating regulatory bottlenecks and cutting multi-year wait times, which he blames for stalling development and weakening Canada’s global economic position.

Under the proposal, a new Rapid Resource Project Office would act as a centralized hub to manage all regulatory approvals across the federal and provincial levels. Each project would be subject to a single application and environmental review, with decisions promised within a year and a target of six months.

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