Pre-commercial technologies in AI, materials, robotics, and energy storage signal a new era for electrified and sustainable industries.
At a glance – The past 24 hours have seen a surge in deep tech activity, with global events spotlighting the convergence of AI, quantum computing, and sustainable innovation. GITEX GLOBAL 2025, set to open in Dubai, is previewing its agenda with a focus on AI-driven supremacy, quantum breakthroughs, and the strategic race for semiconductors. The event promises to showcase real-world enterprise deployments of AI, quantum encryption strategies, and the intersection of biology with neural engineering, all aimed at reprogramming life at molecular and machine levels. This convergence is driving new standards for digital sovereignty, cyber defense, and privacy architecture, setting the tone for the next era of clean and electrified industries.
Technology advance – ETH Zurich’s spin-off program is preparing to unveil several pre-commercial breakthroughs at the upcoming DeepTech Investor Summit in Zurich. Among the most anticipated are new advanced materials for energy storage and next-generation robotics platforms designed for industrial automation and clean manufacturing. These innovations, developed in ETH Zurich’s labs, include solid-state battery prototypes with unprecedented energy density and autonomous robotic arms capable of precision assembly in hazardous environments. The summit, scheduled for January 27-28, 2025, will bring together over 140 deep tech startups and 300 investors, offering a first look at technologies that could redefine energy and manufacturing sectors.
Partnerships – In London, the Gen AI Breakthrough Conference has announced a strategic partnership between The Hackett Group and several leading European clean tech firms. This collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of generative AI in supply chain optimization and energy management. The partnership leverages The Hackett Group’s AI XPLR™ platform, integrating real-world case studies and advanced analytics to help companies unlock competitive advantages in electrified transportation and renewable energy. Senior executives from finance, procurement, and IT are set to share insights on how generative AI is transforming operational models and driving sustainability across industries.
Acquisitions/expansions – Barcelona Deep Tech Summit organizers revealed that several European venture capital funds are expanding their portfolios with investments in quantum computing startups and biotech labs focused on carbon capture. Notably, a $120 million acquisition deal was finalized yesterday between a leading Spanish VC and QuantumCatalyst, a Barcelona-based startup developing quantum algorithms for energy grid optimization. This expansion is expected to accelerate the commercialization of quantum-powered solutions for clean energy distribution and smart grid management, positioning Barcelona as a hub for frontier technology investments.
Regulatory/policy – In Brussels, the EIT Digital Challenge has prompted the European Commission to fast-track new regulatory frameworks for AI and advanced materials in clean tech. The Commission’s latest filings outline streamlined approval processes for lab-developed energy storage systems and AI-driven robotics, aiming to reduce time-to-market for breakthrough technologies. These policy changes are designed to foster innovation while ensuring safety and sustainability, with particular emphasis on supporting startups and scale-ups in the deep tech sector. The regulatory shift is expected to catalyze investment and deployment of next-generation clean technologies across the EU.
Finance/business – Munich’s DLD Conference has become the focal point for venture capital and corporate investment in deep tech, with over $500 million in new funding announced for AI, robotics, and advanced materials startups. Key deals include a $75 million Series B round for NanoVolt, a German startup developing ultra-fast charging solutions for electric vehicles, and a $60 million investment in BioSyn, a biotech firm pioneering synthetic enzymes for industrial carbon reduction. Executive commentary from leading VCs highlights a growing appetite for pre-commercial technologies that promise transformative impacts on electrified transportation, clean manufacturing, and sustainable energy storage.
Sources: gitex.com, femaleswitch.com, thehackettgroup.com, barcelonadeeptechsummit.com, eitdigital.eu, dld-conference.com
