Aclara Resources receives $5M (U.S.) project funding

Executive Summary

• Aclara Resources Inc. secured a commitment of up to US$5 million from the U.S. International Development Finance Corp. (DFC) for project‑development funding on its Carina heavy rare earths project in Goiás, Brazil.
• The DFC funds will finance a feasibility study (initiated July 2025, target completion Q1 2026); upon successful financing events totalling ≥ US$50 million (single) or ≥ US$75 million (multiple) within 12 months, the funding may convert to equity and DFC gains preferential rights to provide further financing.
• The investment underscores U.S. strategic interest in securing heavy rare earth supply chains and de‑risks Aclara’s development path toward projected operations in 2028.

Key Details

• Funding Commitment: Up to US$5 million project‑development funding from DFC.
• Conversion Trigger: Equity conversion possible after a single financing event > US$50 M or multiple events ≥ US$75 M within 12 months for Carina construction.
• Use of Proceeds: Primarily to fund the Carina feasibility study; funds released upon achievement of predefined milestones.
• Feasibility Study Timeline: Initiated July 2025, expected completion end of Q1 2026; conducted by Hatch Ltd. (continuation of prefeasibility slated for September 2025).
• Project Outlook: Carina project projected to commence operations in 2028.
• Terms: No interest payable; repayment may be triggered upon financing event; no security interest granted.
• Strategic Impact: Validates Aclara’s “mine‑to‑magnet” strategy, enhances credibility with off‑takers, and aligns with U.S. policy to secure heavy rare earths from sustainable sources.

Notable Quotes

“We are deeply honoured to have been selected by the U.S. DFC as a recipient of the project development funds… This initial investment is not only a validation of Aclara's strategy, but also an important first step toward a larger commitment from DFC once we complete the feasibility study.” – Ramon Barua, CEO, Aclara Resources Inc.