Munich-based deep-tech startup alqem has raised €8 million in pre-seed funding, the company announced on 6 July 2026. The round was co-led by UVC Partners and Union Square Ventures.
Founded in 2026 by Dr. Hanh Nguyen, Dr. Tiago Cerqueira, and Prof. Milan Allan, alqem is developing an AI-driven engine to discover and commercialize next-generation materials, starting with rare-earth-free magnets. The company combines physics-informed AI, proprietary materials datasets, and in-house synthesis to shorten the path from prediction to industrial application.
The funding will be used to scale alqem’s materials discovery engine, expand research, engineering, and manufacturing roles across Munich and Coimbra, and support the development of a European-led materials supply chain.
The raise comes as interest grows in alternative materials for strategic industries including electric vehicles, wind power, robotics, and defense, where supply chain concentration and rare earth dependence have become a growing concern.
Founded in 2026 by Dr. Hanh Nguyen, Dr. Tiago Cerqueira, and Prof. Milan Allan, alqem is developing an AI-driven engine to discover and commercialize next-generation materials, starting with rare-earth-free magnets. The company combines physics-informed AI, proprietary materials datasets, and in-house synthesis to shorten the path from prediction to industrial application.
The funding will be used to scale alqem’s materials discovery engine, expand research, engineering, and manufacturing roles across Munich and Coimbra, and support the development of a European-led materials supply chain.
The raise comes as interest grows in alternative materials for strategic industries including electric vehicles, wind power, robotics, and defense, where supply chain concentration and rare earth dependence have become a growing concern.