Uncategorized – Cemex Ventures

5 Keys to Boost Construction Productivity

Cemex Ventures Marketing — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 08:41:14 +0000

What is Construction Productivity?

Construction Productivity is more than just a buzzword. It’s the lifeblood of any project, the deciding factor that can mean the difference between a resounding success and a financial headache. In the competitive world of building, have you ever wondered why some projects finish on time and on budget, while others drag on endlessly? The answer often lies in one key idea: efficiency.

If you’re an industry professional, a construction company owner, a site manager, or an architect, you’ve likely asked yourself why your projects aren’t progressing as fast as you’d hoped. Does the feeling of watching deadlines stretch and costs skyrocket sound familiar? You’re not alone.

The construction industry, vital for economic development, often faces challenges that slow productivity.

In this article, we’ll explore how productivity isn’t just a metric but a strategy to optimize every brick, every hour of work, and every machine. From Cemex Ventures, we’ll share 5 essential keys to transform the way you manage your construction projects and supercharge productivity.

Dive into this article full of tips!

From the Stone Age to the Digital Age: Poor Planning is Your Worst Enemy

Did you know the first lesson in project management was learned the hard way in the Stone Age?

Imagine the first clans trying to build a stockade for protection. One of them, instead of choosing thick logs and setting them in solid ground, opted for thin branches and leaned them against the soft riverbank. The result: the first storm washed their “masterpiece” away without a trace, and they had to start from scratch.

This primitive example reminds us that, even in the age of technology, a bad choice during the planning phase can cause a project to literally disappear before it even begins.

An alarming 60% of construction projects suffer delays and cost overruns due to poor planning. For decades, the industry has clung to outdated, manual planning methods that are prone to error. The solution, however, is within our grasp: leveraging new solutions in the industry will significantly help us achieve more precise planning.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a perfect example. This technology allows you to visualize the project in 3D, detect design clashes, and optimize the construction sequence before a single brick is laid. By moving problems from the construction site to the office, you can save a significant amount of time and money. Additionally, project management software allows all team members to collaborate in real-time, efficiently allocate resources, and track progress from a single dashboard.

Ride the AI Wave: Artificial Intelligence Isn’t Just Science Fiction

Just as the T-800 famously promised in the iconic movie Terminator, “I’ll be back,“ artificial intelligence (AI) has delivered on that promise, not as an apocalyptic threat, but as a new and transformative reality.

In recent years, AI has evolved from a futuristic concept into an indispensable tool across various industries, and the construction sector is no exception.

Beyond Intuition: Data-Driven Decision-Making

Traditionally, on-site decision-making has often been based on the experience and intuition of seasoned professionals. While this wisdom is invaluable, it can also lead to costly mistakes and a lack of objectivity.

This is where AI steps in, not as a luxury but as a fundamental tool to optimize processes and enable smarter, data-driven decisions.

Key Applications of AI in Construction

AI is revolutionizing the industry in multiple ways:

Predictive Analytics: Using historical data from past projects, AI algorithms can accurately anticipate potential delays, unforeseen risks, and material needs. This enables project managers to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach, thereby mitigating problems before they occur.
Safety and Automation: Jobsite safety is a top priority, and AI enhances it significantly. AI-equipped drones monitor progress and detect deviations from the original plan, while robots automate repetitive and dangerous tasks like welding or heavy lifting. Furthermore, AI-powered safety systems can monitor the environment in real time to detect risks (such as the absence of personal protective equipment or the presence of intruders in high-risk zones) and alert workers instantly.
Design and Planning: Generative design software with AI can optimize architectural plans to maximize energy efficiency or minimize material waste, exploring thousands of options in minutes. This not only accelerates the design phase but also contributes to the sustainability of projects.

In short, AI is not here to replace construction professionals but to empower them, making jobsites more efficient, safer, and profitable than ever before.

Material Waste: Your Wallet and the Planet Will Thank You

Material waste is a global problem. It’s estimated that between 20% and 30% of construction materials are wasted on-site. This doesn’t just have a negative environmental impact; it also directly affects your profitability. Adopting Cleantech solutions is the answer.

Using sustainable materials, such as low-carbon concrete or recycled materials, not only reduces your carbon footprint but can also lead to long-term savings. Furthermore, using AI and inventory management software can help you predict exact material needs and drastically reduce waste. And let’s not forget the importance of waste management, with tools that help you sort and recycle construction waste.

Communication Disconnect: Traditional Methods Aren’t Enough

One of the main causes of project delays is a lack of effective communication among on-site teams, the office, and subcontractors. While useful, traditional methods aren’t enough to manage the complexity of a construction project. The solution is to implement specific communication and collaboration platforms for construction.

Mobile applications allow you to share plans, photos, reports, and updates in real-time, ensuring all team members have the most current information. Digital twins, which are virtual recreations of the project, allow all stakeholders to have a unified view of the progress. Finally, platforms that integrate data from BIM, project management, and inventory eliminate information silos and ensure a seamless workflow.

Human Talent: Training and Technology Are a Winning Team

Technology is a powerful tool, but without the right people to use it, its potential is wasted. Resistance to change and a lack of staff training can be a brake on the adoption of new technologies. That’s why investing in staff training and fostering a culture of innovation is crucial.

Offering Contech and Cleantech training to your workers will give them the skills they need to use new tools effectively. Additionally, you can create an incentive program to reward teams that achieve greater efficiency and productivity by using technology. Fostering a culture of innovation where experimentation and learning are valued is the best way to ensure your team is prepared for the future.

The technology is there, but are we preparing to use it?

Productivity in construction is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. Adopting technology isn’t an expense; it’s an investment that will allow you to reduce costs, shorten deadlines, and build more sustainably.

At Cemex Ventures, we are committed to finding and supporting the most innovative solutions. Join this movement and let us know about your solution or startup.

Machine Learning Applications Across the Project Lifecycle

Francisco Javier Osete — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:35:21 +0000

In the world of construction, infrastructure, and climate tech, the project lifecycle is a foundational framework that spans from initial concept to long-term asset management. It is typically divided into five critical phases: design, planning, construction, operation, and maintenance. Each of these stages presents unique challenges, ranging from resource allocation and scheduling to environmental impact and system efficiency.

In the nascent stages of machine learning, there was Moravec’s Paradox, an idea that in retrospect seems quite naive: it was thought that machines would struggle more with logical and computational tasks (like those used in structural design or resource optimization) than with skills that humans find “easy,” such as recognizing visual patterns on a construction site or understanding the complexities of a team conversation. As it turned out, computers quickly mastered the former, while the latter, incredibly complex computationally, posed a much greater challenge.

This paradox reminds us that, even in a sector as structured as construction, true innovation lies not just in automating what we already know how to do, but in the machines’ ability to “understand” and adapt to the complexities of the real world, where every brick and every decision has multiple implications. Today, machine learning allows us to optimize planning with complex algorithms and, at the same time, analyze drone images to monitor progress or predict infrastructure failures, tackling those very challenges Moravec’s Paradox taught us to underestimate.

The Project Lifecycle and the Role of Machine Learning

As the industry faces increasing pressure to deliver smarter, greener, and faster projects, Machine Learning (ML) is quickly becoming a transformative tool. ML, a subset of artificial intelligence, enables systems to learn from large volumes of data and make accurate predictions without being explicitly programmed. In construction and cleantech, this means optimizing timelines, minimizing waste, and proactively anticipating system failures before they occur.

AI and machine learning could generate $1.2 trillion in annual savings for the global construction industry by 2030, largely by enhancing productivity, minimizing delays, and improving asset performance

Rather than relying solely on past experiences or manual processes, forward-thinking startups and contractors are increasingly turning to data-driven decision-making across the entire project lifecycle.

In this article, we’ll explore five high-impact applications of Machine Learning across each stage of a project’s lifecycle, and how these innovations are reshaping the future of construction and sustainability.

Smart Design and Architectural Optimization

The design & planning phases are where key decisions are made that influence the cost, efficiency, and sustainability of a project. Machine Learning algorithms, especially those in the generative design field, allow architects and engineers to explore thousands of design permutations in seconds, optimizing layouts for energy performance, material usage, and cost.

Additionally, Machine Learning is being used to evaluate materials and construction techniques, identifying those with the lowest carbon footprint. According to the World Green Building Council, the building and construction sector accounts for 39% of global CO₂ emissions, highlighting the urgent need for intelligent design.

By integrating ML in early design decisions, firms can significantly reduce embodied carbon, improve energy efficiency simulations, and comply with environmental certifications more easily.

Real-Time Construction Management

The construction phase is often where projects face the most volatility, weather, labor, materials, and logistics all contribute to unpredictability. Here, Machine Learning, combined with computer vision and IoT sensors, provides powerful real-time insights that help project managers stay ahead of risks.

Through camera feeds, drones, and LIDAR scanning, ML models can identify deviations from plans, detect safety risks, and predict delays or equipment failures before they occur.

According to a study by Deloitte, AI-powered solutions can reduce construction delays by up to 15% by proactively addressing errors in scheduling, planning, or execution.

Data-Driven Operational Efficiency

Once a project is completed, the focus shifts to ensuring efficient and sustainable operation of the asset, be it a building, energy plant, or urban infrastructure. Here, Machine Learning offers a continuous optimization loop.

ML algorithms ingest real-time data from IoT-connected systems to automatically regulate consumption, improve comfort, and lower operational costs. This approach is key to achieving net-zero energy goals and complying with green building standards.

For example, smart buildings that implement ML for energy management can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%, according to the International Energy Agency.

Additionally, smart grids powered by ML allow for real-time forecasting of energy demand and supply, improving the reliability and resilience of renewable sources such as wind and solar. Some companies are leading this innovation, providing predictive analytics for grid optimization and asset dispatch.

Predictive Maintenance and Continuous Improvement

The final stage of the lifecycle, maintenance and asset management is where Machine Learning delivers long-term ROI. Instead of scheduled or reactive maintenance, ML enables predictive maintenance: systems that anticipate failures before they happen and recommend the optimal time for intervention.

This is particularly valuable in critical infrastructure, such as solar panels, wind turbines, or large mechanical equipment. ML models trained on sensor data can detect micro-anomalies—vibrations, temperature shifts, voltage drops—that signal degradation long before a breakdown.

According to IBM, predictive maintenance powered by ML can reduce unplanned downtime by up to 50% and cut maintenance costs by 25%.

Startups like SAALG Geomechanics, Concrete Sensors, and Optimitive, backed by Cemex Ventures, are already being adopted across the construction and infrastructure sectors to automate maintenance processes, enhance safety, and extend asset life. These solutions leverage real-time data and machine learning to optimize performance, reduce operational risks, and deliver measurable efficiency gains throughout the asset lifecycle.

In the long term, this translates into lower OPEX, improved system reliability, and enhanced sustainability performance driven by continuous learning from data.

Let’s Connect!

If your startup is innovating with cutting-edge AI or ML and has a vision to disrupt the status quo, get in touch today!

Construction Risk Management in the Construction Sector

Francisco Javier Osete — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 07:26:21 +0000

According to the National Safety Council, the sector faces some of the highest rates of workplace accidents and operational challenges. But safety risks are only part of the equation—construction projects are also exposed to financial, legal, and supply chain threats that can derail progress and impact profitability.

From pre-construction planning to final delivery, risks are inevitable at every stage of a project’s life cycle. In today’s increasingly complex and fast-paced environment, a proactive approach to construction risk management is no longer optional; it’s a strategic necessity.

In this article, we’ll break down the most common types of risks in construction and the most promising innovations to address them. Whether you’re an investor, contractor, or project owner, understanding these risks is key to delivering safer, more efficient, and more resilient projects.

Let’s dive in!

What is construction risk management?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s start with the fundamentals. Construction risk management refers to the structured process of identifying, assessing, and addressing potential risks that could impact the successful delivery of a construction project. These risks can be related to safety, cost, schedule, quality, legal compliance, or even environmental and geopolitical factors.

What makes this process particularly complex is the nature of the construction industry itself. Projects often vary widely in size, scope, location, and the number of stakeholders involved. This creates a highly dynamic environment where even small decisions can carry significant consequences, ranging from schedule delays and budget overruns to serious safety incidents or reputational damage.

By proactively managing risks, project teams can make more informed decisions, minimize disruptions, and improve overall project outcomes.

Most common types of risks in construction projects

Construction projects are inherently complex, and as a result, various risks can arise during the project’s lifespan that can have a significant impact on its success. Here are the most common ones:

Supply chain

Delays, shortages, quality issues, or unexpected cost increases in materials can significantly disrupt construction timelines and budgets. These risks are particularly critical for long-lead or imported items.

To mitigate them, material lead times should be analyzed during early planning and integrated into the project schedule, with adequate buffers. Supplier capacity and reliability must be verified before contract award, especially for critical or custom materials.

Implementing a centralized material tracking system, linking procurement, delivery, and site usage, helps flag discrepancies early. For high-risk packages, consider sourcing from multiple suppliers to avoid a single-point failure.

Financial risks

Financial risks in construction stem from cost overruns, price volatility, delayed payments, and funding shortfalls. These challenges often arise from inaccurate cost forecasting, unstable market conditions, or the financial unreliability of key stakeholders. If not managed proactively, they can erode profit margins or even halt project execution.

Mitigation begins with realistic budgeting, incorporating contingencies for inflation and unforeseen expenses. Cost tracking throughout the project lifecycle enables early detection of deviations. Clear payment terms, timely invoicing, and active cash flow management are essential to maintaining financial stability and ensuring uninterrupted progress on site.

Project management inefficiencies

Operational and management risks stem from weak planning, poor coordination, and unclear responsibilities. These issues often lead to delays, resource conflicts, or rework, typically caused by miscommunication, slow decision-making, or missing project data.

To address these challenges, project teams should establish clear goals, assign roles with defined accountability, and maintain consistent communication across all stakeholders. Ongoing progress reviews, combined with proactive planning of labor, materials, and equipment, help ensure each phase is properly resourced and executed.

The use of practical project management tools also supports better visibility and control, making it easier to detect bottlenecks early and keep the project on track.

Legal and contractual challenges

Legal and contractual challenges often stem from vague contract terms, inadequate documentation, or failure to comply with relevant regulations. These challenges can result in disputes, cost overruns, or project delays, particularly when responsibilities are poorly defined or agreements are not properly enforced.

To safeguard against such risks, contracts should be precise, legally sound, and tailored to the specific context of the project. Key clauses must clearly define scope, deliverables, payment conditions, timelines, and procedures for managing changes or resolving conflicts.

Consistent documentation of approvals, modifications, and formal communications helps ensure transparency and accountability throughout the project lifecycle. Clear contractual frameworks reduce uncertainty and strengthen collaboration between all parties involved.

Health & safety

Health and safety risks on construction sites can lead to severe injuries, project interruptions, or legal consequences. These risks are often linked to unsafe working conditions, lack of proper training, inadequate supervision, or failure to follow safety protocols.

Minimizing these risks requires a proactive safety culture embedded from the planning phase onward. This includes conducting regular risk assessments, enforcing compliance with local and international safety standards, and ensuring all personnel are properly trained and equipped.

Clear communication of safety procedures, daily briefings, and real-time reporting tools contribute to stronger incident prevention. A well-structured safety plan not only protects workers but also improves overall project efficiency and stakeholder confidence.

The future of risk management in construction

As construction projects become more complex and high-stakes, traditional risk management methods are no longer sufficient on their own. Emerging technologies are playing a critical role in enhancing visibility, accuracy, and responsiveness, enabling project teams to anticipate, monitor, and respond to risks more effectively than ever before.

Virtual reality (VR)

Virtual reality (VR) and 4D modeling are transforming the preconstruction phase by offering immersive simulations of planned environments. Project stakeholders can visualize the result, identify design conflicts, and optimize phasing before breaking ground. This not only strengthens alignment among teams but also reduces costly rework and delays during execution.

Augmented reality (AR)

AR brings digital elements into physical spaces, allowing users to overlay models onto real-world job sites. This technology enables real-time spatial coordination, helping teams detect discrepancies early, improve on-site planning, and enhance overall decision-making accuracy, particularly useful in complex or phased builds.

Wearable technology

Wearables—such as smart helmets, vests, or wristbands—track worker location, monitor vital signs, and detect slips or falls in real time. These devices enhance site safety by providing immediate alerts in hazardous situations, supporting compliance efforts, and generating data that can be used to prevent future incidents.

Cemex’s commitment to construction risk management

As the corporate venture capital and open innovation unit of Cemex, we’re constantly seeking next-generation solutions with the potential to transform the construction industry, and here’s a great example from our investment portfolio. Meet Prysmex, one of the first startups that Cemex, through Cemex Ventures, invested in back in 2018.

Prysmex

This Mexican company is focused on improving health and safety in the workplace. Their platform leverages the Internet of Things and real-time data collection to detect and help prevent accidents on job sites. After a successful pilot, Cemex implemented Prysmex’s technology across all of its cement plants in Mexico.

Prysmex combines IoT technology with a collaborative web platform to enhance workplace safety. Its helmet-mounted devices monitor real-time environmental and geolocation data—such as noise, temperature, impacts, and gas presence—alerting workers to risks instantly. The platform also generates analytics and 3D visualizations to support proactive decision-making and prevent accidents before they happen.

If you’re an entrepreneur with a high-potential solution that can help reduce risks in construction, get in touch with us

CONTACT US!

H1 2025 Industry Insights: Contech & Cleantech

Francisco Javier Osete — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:29:05 +0000

The first half of 2025 brings good news and some pretty exciting numbers when it comes to the investment landscape — and we’re here to tell you all about it.

That said, the game has changed compared to previous years, with disruptive technologies taking center stage. Interesting, right? Here are some insights from the Cemex Ventures investment team, who’ve gathered the most relevant takeaways from 2025 so far.

Let’s go!

Q2 2025 Summary

Q2 2025 was busier than ever! Investments totaled US$660.5M across 91 deals. Compared to Q2 2024, the total amount invested increased slightly by 19%, while the number of deals rose by 24%.

Total Investment: $660.5M

Total number of deals: 91

Taking a big-picture view of H1 2025, total investment volume reached US$2.023 billion, marking a significant 55% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Another clear sign of growth: the number of deals rose to 192, representing a 31% increase over the first half of 2024.

Investment by Focus Area

Technologies focused on productivity improvement and disruption are receiving the most attention in 2025 so far. The breakdown by investment amount in Q2 2025 across Cemex Ventures’ four market-driven opportunity areas was:

Enhanced Productivity: 45%

Future of Construction: 30%

Green Construction: 15%

Construction Supply Chain: 10%

Key Note: It’s important to highlight the sharp drop in investment in sustainable solutions (Green Construction) during this period. Historically, this category has consistently ranked alongside Enhanced Productivity as one of the top two fastest-growing technology areas.

This phenomenon may be driven by reduced interest in the U.S., stemming from the new administration’s deprioritization of sustainability. Meanwhile, Europe continues to move toward a greener economy and industry, albeit at a slower pace. We’ll keep an eye on green construction deals in the coming quarters to better understand long-term trends.

45% of the deals were related to AI, which continues pushing productivity transactions this year.

In terms of investment share (%), Enhanced Productivity has clearly emerged as the dominant focus area, accounting for 45% of total funding. This includes solutions such as geotechnical analysis, BIM and digital twins, health and safety tools, and project tendering, among others.

Close behind was Future of Construction, capturing 30% of total investment, a notable resurgence for a focus area that has rarely held such a strong position. It includes technologies like 3D printing, robotics, smart buildings, and automated construction.

Investment by Region

The majority of Contech and Cleantech investment in Q2 2025 was concentrated in North America, continuing a trend seen over the past few years, with figures very similar to those in Q2 2024 (2024: 55%, 2025: 57%). As usual, Europe followed, also maintaining a comparable share to the same period last year (2024: 30%, 2025: 29%).

North America & Europe are leading compared to other regions (86% of the deals) in the first half of the year

Below is the breakdown of investment amounts by region for Q2 2025:

Top Deals in Q2 2025

Every month, our investment team tracks and compiles the top deals in Contech and Cleantech. Here are our top 3 picks:

Gecko Robotics raised $125M in Series D: Gecko Robotics, which uses robots and AI to help organizations including the U.S. military inspect and monitor critical infrastructure, raised a $125 million Series D, bringing its valuation to $1.25 billion. Read more!

AIM secured $50M in new funding: AIM Intelligent Machines, Seattle-area startup that retrofits heavy earthmoving machinery to operate autonomously, raised $50 million in new funding. Read more!

Buildots closed $45M in Series D: Buildots raised $45 million in a Series D funding round led by Qumra Capital, with participation from OG Venture Partners, TLV Partners, Poalim Equity, Future Energy Ventures, and Viola Growth. Read more!

Key Takeaways from our Experts

Closing out H2, here are our main takeaways

Q2-2025 showed improved investment figures and deal activity compared to the same quarter last year, although it dropped compared to Q1-2025, where we registered a relevant investment volume of +$1,360M.

The first half of 2025 showed strong results ($2,023M) compared to the same period of 2024 ($1,304M) and 2023 ($1,228M).

Activity continues to increase, especially in early-stage rounds (pre-seed to series A).

Strategics were active during the period with relevant deals, especially in the cement industry. Cemex Ventures closed 2 deals during this period (Terra CO2 and Optimitive).

In the first half of the year, productivity and green construction projects account for two-thirds (66%) of the total invested capital.

Whether you’re a startup, SME, corporate, building professional, media journalist, or just plain curious, we’d love to hear from you! Reach out through our website or follow us on LinkedIn and X.

Want to stay in the loop on the latest Contech deals and news? Subscribe to our biweekly Contech Tacos newsletter!

Cleantech VC: The future of innovation

Francisco Javier Osete — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 08:14:43 +0000

Have you ever heard of cleantech? In 2024 alone, EU cleantech investment reached €23.4 billion across 76 deals—nearly tripling the previous year’s total. A historic first quarter accounted for €16.9 billion of that investment, fueled by mega-deals and increased backing from public financial institutions. Notably, cleantech venture capital (VC) activity spanned 23 of the 27 EU member states, highlighting the growing traction across the continent.

In the same year, €8.8 billion in venture capital was directed towards clean technologies, sparking a wave of sustainable technology innovations that are set to revolutionize various industries, including construction. In this article, we’ll explore how clean technologies are being applied in the building sector and why VC investment is essential to driving the next generation of green infrastructure. Let’s go!

What is cleantech?

First things first. Before we get into cleantech investment and what it all involves, let’s take a moment to break down what this term really means.

Cleantech (Short for “clean technologies” has grown beyond niche sustainability circles in recent years and is now gaining more traction than ever across mainstream industries. In simple terms, this concept refers to a broad range of technologies and companies focused on improving environmental sustainability. We’re talking about innovations and business models that tackle global challenges like climate change and resource depletion.

The cleantech umbrella covers a wide variety of products (such as solar panels and low-carbon cement), services, and processes across different sectors (energy, construction, transportation, materials, and chemicals, among others), all designed to:

Provide superior performance or decrease costs

Greatly reduce (or eliminate) environmental impact

Maximize the productive and responsible use of natural resources

The role of cleantech in the construction industry

As the construction industry intensifies efforts to reduce carbon emissions and lessen its environmental footprint. Cleantech is emerging as a key driver of sustainable transformation. Startups and leading construction firms are actively investing in and adopting clean technologies that promote eco-friendly building practices.

Cleantech in construction focuses on improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, and lowering emissions across the entire building lifecycle—from design and material selection to construction methods and operational performance. By integrating these solutions, the building industry is not only addressing environmental challenges but also unlocking new opportunities for cost savings and long-term value.

The evolution of venture capital in cleantech

In our recently published Top 50 Contech 2025 Report, the investment experts at Cemex Ventures shared some of the most valuable insights on the trajectory and outlook of cleantech investment throughout 2024. Amid a slowdown in venture capital activity, construction-related clean technology also saw a 15% drop compared to 2023 (2023: US$54B, 2024: US$46B). While this decline reflects ongoing market challenges, it also points to a window of opportunity for the adoption of breakthrough technologies in 2025. The Cleantech sector within the building environment has shown adaptability with a growing influx of investment driven by substantial public subsidies and increasing private sector interest in this field.

Fast forward, let’s dig into the information about the intersection of Contech and Cleantech in Q1 2025 — that is, solutions applicable to Contech which, due to their sustainability angle, CO2 mitigation, etc., can also be considered Cleantech. During this period, the sector reached an invested amount of USD 466.44M across 23 deals — a 93% and 44% increase, respectively, compared to 2024 (USD 241.19M invested across 16 deals).

Due to the positive start of the year in the investment activity in the Contech ecosystem, Cleantech-related transactions (applied to the built environment) have also experienced a considerable increase, compared to the same quarter last year.

Top Deals Q1 2025: Contech + Cleantech

Terra CO2 closed US$82M in Series B: Terra CO2, a leading US-based low-carbon building materials company, secured US$82 million in Series B equity commitments from a mix of financial and strategic investors. Read more!

Ana received US$50M from S2G Investments: Ana, a Henderson, NV-based mobile power and air solutions company, received a $50M investment from S2G Investments. Read more!

Reneo snapped €600M: Reneo, a Hamburg-based real estate technology and investment platform, has secured a €600 million capital platform. The funding will support the decarbonization of Germany’s residential real estate sector. Read more!

The latest (and most compelling) takeaways on cleantech investment

The European Commission’s Clean Industrial Deal, unveiled in February 2025, aims to boost the EU’s cleantech and heavy industries with €100 billion in funding over the next 10 years. Read more!

In 2024, China invested $940 billion in clean energy, approaching the $1.12 trillion spent globally on fossil fuels. Read more!

Since the Inflation Reduction Act, clean manufacturing has become the fastest-growing area of clean energy investment in the U.S., with quarterly funding jumping from $2.5B in Q3 2022 to $14B in Q1 2025. Read more!

In 2025, green hydrogen is emerging as a key pillar of India’s cleantech push, driven by the National Green Hydrogen Mission and rising private investment, positioning the country as a future global leader in green hydrogen production. Read more!

Asia-Pacific is emerging as a cleantech investment hotspot, with the region set to drive 60% of global GDP growth in 2024 and consume half the world’s electricity by 2025.

The International Renewable Energy Agency estimates that at least $150 trillion in global cleantech investment is needed by 2050 to keep warming below the 1.5°C threshold set by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Read more!

2025 trends in Cleantech

Energy appetite for AI

The computational power required to support AI’s rapid growth is doubling roughly every 100 days. This surge is driving a sharp rise in the number of data centers being built around the world, along with the energy needed to run them. As a result, AI and data centers are becoming major drivers of global electricity demand.

But it’s not just about how much energy is used, it’s also about when and where it’s needed. Data centers require a constant, stable power supply 24/7, which puts pressure on efforts to reduce emissions. This is sparking a global race to secure data center locations that offer abundant, clean, and reliable energy at scale.

Over the past year, major tech companies have ramped up investment in advanced nuclear technologies, from small modular reactors to fusion. These long-term solutions show promise, but most won’t be ready to deliver energy until the 2030s.

Google plans to increase capital investments to $75 billion in 2025 as part of its effort to expand AI and cloud capacity.

Transitioning to greener construction

The construction industry is shifting toward a more sustainable approach. Low-carbon construction aims to make building processes less harmful and more aligned with the environmental goals of the Paris Agreement.

Several startups are also embracing cleaner, more sustainable materials—commonly known as green building materials—such as hemp-based concrete, bamboo, precast concrete, mycelium, and recycled plastic, among others.

The global precast concrete market is expected to keep growing, with projections reaching USD 247.5 billion by 2035.

Continued focus on innovation on clean energy

The clean energy sector has been consistently innovating, and this momentum is expected to accelerate even more in 2025. This trend is evident in the growing investments and increased public funding for energy research and development, aimed at improving technical performance and efficiency, reducing costs, advancing emerging technologies, and inventing the solutions of the future.

Mature technologies like solar photovoltaics and wind turbines have already undergone this transformation over the past decades. Now, emerging technologies such as batteries and carbon management solutions are following their own innovation trajectories—driven by even greater urgency and rapid growth.

In 2024, global investment in clean energy reached a record $2.1 trillion, representing an 11% increase over the previous year and more than double the levels seen in 2020.

Cemex Ventures and Cleantech: A Strategic Match

Yes, at Cemex Ventures, we’ve totally clicked with cleantech. We’re all in on leading the construction industry’s shift toward a greener, cleaner future. Our team of investment pros is constantly on the lookout for the most disruptive clean technologies that can cut CO2 emissions and boost the circular economy. That’s why our investment portfolio proudly showcases what green construction is all about.

If you’re an entrepreneur with a breakthrough cleantech solution that could shake up the construction world—we’ve got great news for you! Construction Startup Competition (teamed up with industry giants like Caterpillar, Hilti Group, Ferrovial, VINCI Group’s Leonard, Haskell’s Dysruptek, and Zacua Ventures) is open for applications until June 22.

This is your chance to skyrocket your startup into a top-tier ecosystem of investors and major companies!

APPLY HERE

Startup Funding: The Basics

Francisco Javier Osete — Tue, 06 May 2025 08:15:43 +0000

Although they’re called ‘unicorns’ for their supposed rarity, there are more than you’d probably imagine—as of January 2025, there are over 1,200 unicorns globally (privately held companies valued at more than US$1 billion). Once just another unicorn, now household names—think Airbnb, Facebook, or Google.

Even the giants we know today began as early-stage startups. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about startup funding.

Remember: Every major company started with a great idea and the right funding. Your breakthrough could be next!

Types of Startup Funding

Let’s start with the basics: startup funding refers to the process of raising capital for new established businesses. It’s a key stage in a startup’s life cycle, providing the necessary resources to launch, scale, and grow the business, essential for covering initial costs, scaling operations, and achieving milestones that attract further investments.

Do you need funding for your startup? Early-stage businesses typically raise funding from a variety of sources. Here are the 6 most common types:

Angel Investors

Angel investors are usually wealthy individuals who risk their own money to invest in startups, mostly in exchange for an ownership stake or convertible debt. Angel capital typically funds activities such as prototype development, market research, and initial hiring. Angel investors play a critical role in validating the startup, providing capital to prove the concept and signaling confidence to other investors.

Angels usually have prior industry or entrepreneurial experience, offering mentorship and guidance to founders they support. Their involvement helps startups navigate early challenges and refine their strategy. Additional benefits of angel financing include:

Invest earlier than other investors

Faster decision-making

Provide startup expertise

Leverage networks to connect founders with investors, talent, and customers

Caution: Angel investors expect involvement. Choose those aligned with your startup’s vision and growth strategy.

Venture Capital

Venture capital, also known as VC, is a financial tool that helps businesses grow, offering institutional investors opportunities in emerging companies. Startups benefit by securing funding, refining business models, and exploring new markets through this short-term capital injection. VC investors typically have a strong economic focus, negotiating terms for equity in the company.

VC firms raise funds to invest in both early-stage and mature startups. They often prioritize performance metrics and financial potential when assessing investments.

You might also like: How venture capital funding works

Corporate Venture Capital

CVC is the practice of established companies investing in external startups to drive innovation and strategic growth. Often, startups approach these corporations to test technologies, explore joint developments, gain new customers, and secure funding.

One significant advantage of corporate venture capital is helping startups break into new markets, utilizing the corporation’s network. Additionally, startups receive support in legal advice, communications, marketing, or access to facilities tailored to specific collaboration needs.

Pro tip: Align your startup’s objectives with the strategic goals of your corporate partner to maximize mutual benefit.

Bootstrapping

Bootstrapping is a self-financing approach where entrepreneurs use personal savings, initial sales revenue, or loans without external investors. Founders retain complete control over business decisions, avoiding equity dilution.

However, bootstrapping requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and patience, potentially limiting rapid growth opportunities.

Accelerators

In short, accelerators help entrepreneurs turn their knowledge into action. These are cohort-based programs that offer mentorship, services, education, networking, and recognition to early-stage startups looking to scale their product or service quickly. They are considered a form of early-stage financing because they often provide seed funding for startups.

Crowfunding

Crowdfunding platforms let startups raise small amounts of money from many individuals, usually via online campaigns.

Backers might receive rewards, equity, or debt. These platforms allow entrepreneurs to showcase ideas to wider audiences, validate market interest, and gain early customer feedback.

Quick tip: Crowdfunding is more than funding—it can validate your product and build your community from day one.

Seed Funding for Startups: Your First Step

First things first: seed funding is the initial capital an early-stage startup raises to advance toward the next growth stage. Known also as seed capital or seed money, it’s typically the first formal institutional fundraising round. Seed investors are willing to take big risks on early-stage companies for potentially high returns.

Seed funding mainly serves to validate business ideas and move towards a functioning business. Startups are considered ready for seed funding when they can demo their product, even if further development is needed to reach a minimum viable product (MVP) or proof of concept.

How to pitch the seed round?

Pitch meetings allow startups to present their business model and vision to potential investors. Crafting a compelling investor pitch is crucial during fundraising—investors see countless pitches, and few stand out. A successful pitch is clear, concise, memorable, tells a compelling story, addresses key concerns, and excites investors.

When a pitch leads to a term sheet, leverage insights from fundraising benchmarks and financial models to negotiate favorable terms. Involve legal counsel to ensure fairness and market alignment.

Advice: Always review term sheets carefully. Good negotiations now can significantly impact your startup’s future.

Construction Industry Funding: Opportunities for Startups

According to Top 50 2025 Contech Report, the data from 2024 shows that during this last year, we witnessed the first signs of stabilization in Contech investment compared to 2023, a year in which the number of deals reached 325, marking an approximate increase of 38% compared to the 236 deals reported in 2023. The total amount invested also rose, though only by 2% compared to the previous year. The comparative data indicates that investors were significantly more active than in 2023, with a notable increase in the number of deals in early-stage startups. This highlights the untapped potential for growth in construction technology.

Here are some of the most renowned grants you can tap into to fund your startup if your solution applies to the construction industry:

U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA): Part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, the EDA offers ongoing grant opportunities to support projects that drive regional and national economic growth. Funding is available for a wide range of initiatives, including construction, planning, technical assistance, research, and education.

EU Innovation Fund: One of the world’s largest funding programs for cleantech innovation. It recently awarded €173 million to 18 pioneering projects that contribute to decarbonization and support the green transition.

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE): Through its Infrastructure Program, the DOE provides funding for transformative infrastructure and clean energy projects. Regular funding announcements cover areas like grid modernization, clean hydrogen, energy storage, and advanced manufacturing.

Cemex Ventures, Your Startup Partner

Investing in startups can help companies tap external innovation and accelerate internal innovation efforts.

At Cemex Ventures, the corporate venture capital and open innovation arm of Cemex, we don’t just invest, we collaborate, scale, and ignite bold ideas. We back the startups reshaping construction, combining financial support with strategic muscle to turn vision into real-world impact.

Our mission? To fuel the transformation of the construction industry, making it more sustainable, efficient, agile, and future-ready. If you’re building game-changing solutions, we’re here to build with you. If you have a startup with technology that fits these characteristics and has the potential to make a game-changing impact on the construction industry, apply now for Construction Startup Competition 2025.

Apply Now!

Deep Dive: OPTIMITIVE x Cemex Ventures

Francisco Javier Osete — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:36:11 +0000

In 2024, artificial intelligence dominated Contech (construction technology) investments, claiming 37% of total funding and larger-than-average deal sizes. Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just generating buzz, it’s the cornerstone of evolution, reshaping the Contech investment landscape and propelling a pivotal shift in the digitalization of the construction industry.

OPTIMITIVE has ridden the AI wave, enhancing efficiency and sustainability in processes across heavy-intensive industries—and construction is no exception. The Spanish company is now part of our investment portfolio, redefining real-time construction process optimization with analytics & visionary AI technology.

Keep scrolling to learn more about this hot-off-the-press partnership!

Press Release

Cemex Ventures invests in company pushing boundaries of real-time industrial process optimization with AI technology

Madrid, Spain. April 22, 2025. Cemex Ventures, Cemex’s corporate venture capital (CVC) and open innovation unit, announced today that it has executed an investment agreement with OPTIMITIVE, a Spanish company that provides high-tech solutions through advanced analytics & artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize efficiency and sustainability in processes within energy-intensive industries.

Founded in 2008, OPTIMITIVE has developed proprietary artificial intelligence software to enhance efficiency across heavy industries. It offers advanced solutions for process improvement, maintenance, and services, with a strong focus on the cement industry during the last years. The Spain-based company has developed one of the most far-reaching solutions on the market, featuring real-time and closed-loop process optimization—which means it can autonomously learn and adjust optimal set points in autopilot mode. Among its additional competitive advantages is its no-code visual design—which enables large-scale adoption without requiring specific AI expertise—and continuous operation—24 hours a day, 365 days a year. OPTIMITIVE is currently commercializing two main products: Optibat Studio – a tool for historical data analytics, modeling, and optimization used by process engineers – and Optibat RTO – a tool for real-time operation used by process operators.

“OPTIMITIVE has a robust customer base across a large number of sectors, making it an ideal partner that reinforces Cemex’s commitment to transforming the industry through collaboration with breakthrough technologies,” said Alfredo Carrato, Investment and Open Innovation at Cemex Ventures. “We are excited about this partnership with OPTIMITIVE, given the impressive results they have already achieved in Europe and the United States in projects to date with Cemex.”

“Since our first engagement with Cemex some years ago, we have always been confident that our relationship would be long-lasting. “Now, thanks to their strong technological vision and commitment to reducing their carbon footprint, they have chosen to continue supporting OPTIMITIVE through this investment”, commented Fernando de la Prida, CEO at OPTIMITIVE. “This decision reflects the high level of satisfaction among our clients and the competitive advantages that OPTIBAT brings to their operations.”

Cemex seeks to scale OPTIMITIVE’s solution across its operations as part of its Digital Innovation in Motion ecosystem, with the goal of agile large-scale deployments in the near future. By integrating this groundbreaking solution, the construction giant aims to significantly reduce energy consumption at its production facilities while simultaneously increasing (production) efficiency by up to double digit percentage points. Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in reducing Cemex’s operational carbon footprint, in line with the Future in Action program to become a net-zero CO₂ company. This collaboration is a clear example of how cutting-edge technologies are transforming the building materials sector of the future.

About OPTIMITIVE

OPTIMITIVE delivers advanced technology solutions for operational optimization through Advanced Analytics and Artificial Intelligence. Their systems work in real-time, analyzing process data and recommending the most appropriate adjustments in each case to minimize energy consumption while improving production, quality, safety, and equipment health. OPTIMITIVE is rooted in Álava, Spain, and has expanded globally. They operate in the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia, with over 10 years of experience in process industries. For more information, please visit: https://optimitive.com/

About Cemex Ventures

Launched in 2017, Cemex Ventures focuses on helping overcome the main challenges and capitalizing on the opportunity areas in the construction ecosystem through solutions that consider sustainability. Cemex Ventures has developed an open collaborative platform to lead the revolution of the construction industry, engaging startups, entrepreneurs, universities, and other stakeholders to tackle the challenges in the construction environment and shape the industry’s future. For more information on Cemex Ventures, please visit: www.cemexventures.com

About Cemex

Cemex is a global construction materials company that is building a better future through sustainable products and solutions. Cemex is committed to achieving carbon neutrality through relentless innovation and industry-leading research and development. Cemex is at the forefront of the circular economy in the construction value chain and is pioneering ways to increase the use of waste and residues as alternative raw materials and fuels in its operations with the help of new technologies. Cemex offers cement, ready-mix concrete, aggregates, and urbanization solutions in growing markets around the world, powered by a multinational workforce focused on providing a superior customer experience enabled by digital technologies. For more information, please visit: www.cemex.com

What does OPTIMITIVE do?

OPTIMITIVE has developed proprietary artificial intelligence software efficiency in heavy industries, with a strong focus on the cement industry. The Spanish company offers one of the most comprehensive solutions on the market, featuring real-time, closed-loop process optimization –which means it can autonomously learn and adjust optimal set points in autopilot mode. One of its major competitive advantages is its no-code visual design, enabling large-scale adoption without requiring AI expertise, along with continuous, 24/7 year-round operation.

These are OPTIMITIVE’s main products:

Optibat Studio: A tool that enables flexible and easy-to-setup autonomous AI optimization in a closed-loop system, used by process engineers for historical data analytics, modeling, and optimization, and designed for industrial companies aiming to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Optibat RTO: A tool that uses AI to improve industrial processes and recommend optimum set-points in real-time, designed for real-time operation and used by process operators.

Why has Cemex invested in OPTIMITIVE?

As the open innovation arm of Cemex, we are committed to continuously seeking high-potential startups focused on enhancing sustainability and driving digital transformation in the building industry. With a strong emphasis on decarbonizing the built environment and promoting energy efficiency principles, Cemex Ventures is eager to collaborate with startups aligned with these objectives. OPTIMITIVE stands out as an ideal partner, offering cutting-edge technology and one of the most far-reaching solutions on the market, which has already delivered impressive results in projects across Europe and the United States with Cemex.

Put simply: By integrating OPTIMITIVE’s solution, Cemex aims to significantly reduce energy consumption while simultaneously increasing production efficiency.

But let’s dive a little bit deeper…

How will OPTIMITIVE and Cemex help each other achieve their objectives?

In this partnership, Cemex aims to take OPTIMTIVE’s technology to the next level, scaling its solutions across its operations and helping fulfill its mission of transforming industrial processes globally, making them more efficient and sustainable using AI, thus contributing to a better world to live in.

Cemex helps OPTIMITIVE raise additional capital to fuel its growth while leveraging Cemex Ventures’ expertise in growth strategies and Cemex’s knowledge of construction and building materials. Through this partnership, Cemex aims to achieve agile, large-scale deployments of OPTIMITIVE’s solution in the near future.

OPTIMITIVE helps Cemex through its robust presence across a wide range of sectors, reinforcing Cemex’s commitment to transforming the industry through collaboration with breakthrough technologies.

This partnership is closely aligned with one of Cemex’s top priorities: Digital Innovation in Motion. By integrating its solution, the construction giant will reduce its energy consumption while simultaneously increasing production efficiency by up to double-digit percentage points.

Moreover, this agreement is closely tied to Cemex’s strategic priority of Future in Action sustainability program, as energy efficiency plays a fundamental role in reducing Cemex’s operational carbon footprint on its path to becoming a net-zero CO₂ company.

Who is OPTIMITIVE?

Founded in 2008, the Spain-based startup made its first steps with Cemex Ventures—although it had already worked with Cemex—appearing in the Top 50 Contech Startups & Cleantech Construction Map in 2024 under the Decarbonization Alternatives vertical. Now, in 2025, we’re betting on OPTIMITIVE through this investment.

The Basque startup—present in the Americas, Asia, Africa and Europe—specializes in optimizing efficient services for businesses and serves clients in the cement, oil, and chemical industries, among other sectors. OPTIMITIVE has a…

Mission: They are committed to transforming heavy industry processes and contributing to a more sustainable and efficient world.

Vision: They envision a future where any complex system is complemented by an “Optimization Brain” that ensures its effective operation under all circumstances.

What’s next?

Like all our portfolio companies, we’ll keep you updated with all the news about OPTIMITIVE through our digital channels: blog, social media, and our Contech Tacos biweekly newsletter (we also send memes ).

Biomass Energy Made Easy: Pros, Cons & How It Works

Francisco Javier Osete — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:13:17 +0000

Biomass energy is one of the oldest forms of energy used by humans – think of burning wood for warmth – yet it’s also a modern clean-tech solution. In today’s push for greener construction and sustainable power, biomass energy offers a way to turn organic waste and plant materials into useful electricity, heat, or fuel.

This post breaks down what biomass energy is, how it works, and its pros and cons, in a friendly and easy-to-understand way. We’ll explore why cleantech and construction professionals are giving biomass a fresh look as part of the clean energy mix.

What is biomass energy?

Biomass energy is a form of renewable energy derived from organic materials (biomass) like plants, wood, and animal waste. In simple terms, it’s energy from stuff that was recently living. This includes materials such as:

Wood and forestry residues
Agricultural crops and waste
Organic portions of garbage
Animal manure and sewage

These biomass sources can be used to produce heat, electricity, or even transportation fuels. For example, corn and sugar cane can be fermented into ethanol (a biofuel), and used cooking oil or soybean oil can be processed into biodiesel for trucks.

Did you know?
Landfill gas—mainly methane produced from decomposing waste—can actually be captured and burned to generate energy in certain projects.

Disadvantages & Challenges of Biomass Energy

While biomass offers many benefits as a renewable energy source, it’s not without its drawbacks. From environmental concerns to economic and logistical challenges, it’s important to understand the limitations that come with using organic material for power. Here are some key disadvantages and hurdles to consider when evaluating biomass energy.

Resource-Intensive (Land & Water):

Growing biomass can require large land areas and water use.
May compete with food production or harm biodiversity if not managed properly.

Emissions & Air Pollution:

Burning biomass releases pollutants like smoke, particulates, and gases.
Without modern controls, it can harm indoor and outdoor air quality.
Burning contaminated waste can release toxic emissions.

Lower Efficiency:

Biomass-to-energy conversion is often less efficient than fossil fuels.
Requires more fuel volume and handling for the same energy output.
Wet or low-density biomass further reduces efficiency.

Higher Costs (Currently):

Collection, processing, and transport can be expensive.
Biomass energy can cost more than solar, wind, or even fossil fuels in some cases.
Higher upfront investment may be a barrier for small businesses or startups.

Not Always Carbon Neutral:

Cutting forests for fuel releases carbon instantly; regrowth takes time.
Emissions from machinery and transport can reduce the overall climate benefit.
Biomass is only green if the supply chain is sustainable.

In summary, biomass energy’s downsides revolve around environmental trade-offs and practical challenges in sourcing and burning the fuel. It’s renewable, but only if we renew the resources. It’s cleaner than coal, but not emissions-free.

And it’s potentially low-carbon, but not automatically so – good practices and policies are needed to make biomass a truly sustainable part of the energy mix.Why is biomass considered renewable?

Because new plants and organic waste are continually growing or produced. Unlike fossil fuels which take millions of years to form, biomass can be replenished on human timescales – trees regrow, crops are harvested annually, and waste is continuously generated. In fact, biomass has been a major energy source throughout history and still accounts for a significant share of renewable energy today.

Globally, bioenergy (energy from biomass) is the largest renewable energy source, making up about 55% of all renewable energy and about 6% of total world energy supply. In the European Union, biomass accounts for ~59% of renewable energy consumption (as of 2021). Even in the United States, which relies heavily on fossil fuels, biomass provided about 5% of total primary energy in 2023

This shows that biomass energy is not a fringe idea – it’s a major player in the renewable energy mix worldwide.

How does biomass energy work?

Biomass contains stored chemical energy that originally came from the sun. Through photosynthesis, plants convert sunlight, CO₂, and water into organic matter. When we use that biomass as fuel, we’re releasing the sun’s energy that the plants stored. There are a few key ways this conversion happens:

Direct combustion is the simplest method: solid biomass (like wood, pellets, or agricultural waste) is burned to produce heat. This heat can directly warm buildings or generate steam to spin turbines for electricity. It’s used in biomass boilers, power plants, and combined heat and power (CHP) systems that supply both heat and electricity.
Thermochemical conversion involves heating biomass in low-oxygen environments to produce fuels. Pyrolysiscreates bio-oil, syngas, and charcoal, while gasification produces syngas (carbon monoxide and hydrogen), which can generate electricity or be converted into liquid fuels like renewable diesel using the Fischer–Tropsch process (A process that converts gases into liquid fuels). These methods allow for more flexible energy products than direct burning.
Biochemical conversion uses microbes to break down organic matter. In anaerobic digestion, bacteria produce biogas (mainly methane) from materials like manure or food waste. Fermentation converts plant sugars into ethanol. Both processes create renewable fuels that can replace fossil sources.

In all methods, the goal is the same: release energy from biomass to generate electricity, heat, or fuel. Modern biomass plants often resemble coal plants but use renewable inputs instead of fossil fuels.

Waste-to-energy is a related approach, where municipal solid waste is burned to produce power. The biomass portion of garbage (like food, wood, and paper) contributes to energy output while reducing landfill use. Proper pollution controls are needed to manage non-organic materials like plastics.

In short, biomass energy turns natural materials into power—whether through burning, chemical conversion, or microbial processes—offering a renewable alternative to fossil fuels.

Advantages of biomass energy

Biomass often comes up as a promising clean energy solution. Here are some key advantages, especially relevant for startups and construction industry professionals looking at cleaner energy alternatives:

Renewable & Sustainable:

Biomass is replenishable — plants regrow, and waste is constantly produced.
If managed properly, it can be a carbon-neutral energy source.
New plant growth absorbs the CO₂ released by burning older biomass.

Waste Reduction (Two Birds, One Stone):

Uses agricultural waste, wood scraps, and organic trash to produce energy.
Reduces landfill use and methane emissions from decomposing waste.
Turns waste into power — cleaner disposal and energy generation in one.

Energy Security & Local Jobs:

Biomass is often sourced locally (wood chips, crop residues, manure).
Less dependence on imported fuels.
Supports rural economies and creates jobs in farming, forestry, and waste management.

Reliable & Storable Power:

Unlike solar energy and wind energy, biomass can provide steady, on-demand energy.
Fuels like pellets or biogas can be stored and used when needed.
Ideal for industry, construction, and as backup for intermittent renewables.

Lower Carbon Footprint (Potentially):

Biomass recycles recent carbon from the atmosphere.
When sourced sustainably, it can cut greenhouse gas emissions.
With BECCS (Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage), it can even become carbon-negative.

Versatile Use:

Can produce electricity, heat, liquid fuels (like biodiesel), and biochemicals.
Useful for powering equipment, heating buildings, or making materials from plants.

Disadvantages & Challenges of Biomass Energy

Resource-Intensive (Land & Water):

Growing biomass can require large land areas and water use.
May compete with food production or harm biodiversity if not managed properly.

Emissions & Air Pollution:

Burning biomass releases pollutants like smoke, particulates, and gases.
Without modern controls, it can harm indoor and outdoor air quality.
Burning contaminated waste can release toxic emissions.

Lower Efficiency:

Biomass-to-energy conversion is often less efficient than fossil fuels.
Requires more fuel volume and handling for the same energy output.
Wet or low-density biomass further reduces efficiency.

Higher Costs (Currently):

Collection, processing, and transport can be expensive.
Biomass energy can cost more than solar, wind, or even fossil fuels in some cases.
Higher upfront investment may be a barrier for small businesses or startups.

Not Always Carbon Neutral:

Cutting forests for fuel releases carbon instantly; regrowth takes time.
Emissions from machinery and transport can reduce the overall climate benefit.
Biomass is only green if the supply chain is sustainable.

And it’s potentially low-carbon, but not automatically so – good practices and policies are needed to make biomass a truly sustainable part of the energy mix.

FAQs

Below we address some frequently asked questions about biomass energy:

Q: Is biomass energy really carbon-neutral?

A: In principle, yes. Biomass energy can be carbon-neutral because the CO₂ released by burning is offset by the CO₂ absorbed during the growth of the biomass.

Q: What are some common uses of biomass energy in the construction industry?

A: The construction and building sector can use biomass in a few ways. One common use as a generator that runs on biodiesel (from vegetable oil) instead of petroleum diesel to reduce their carbon footprint.

Q: Does biomass energy cause pollution?

A: Biomass combustion does produce emissions, so it’s not as pristine as solar panels or wind turbines. The level of pollution, however, can be much lower than with fossil fuels, and there are ways to minimize it.

Q: Is biomass energy cheaper or more expensive than other energy?

A:This depends on the situation. If you have access to cheap biomass waste, then using that for energy can be very cost-effective – sometimes even essentially free fuel. For instance, many sawmills burn their sawdust to generate their electricity and heat, saving on energy bills. However, if you have to purchase biomass feedstock, the costs can add up. As of now, in many places, generating electricity from wind or solar is cheaper per kWh than from dedicated biomass power plants.

CONCLUSION

Biomass energy might not be as trendy as solar panels or electric vehicles, but it’s a powerful ally in the quest for sustainable energy. For cleantech innovators and construction industry professionals, understanding biomass opens up opportunities to reuse resources, cut emissions, and maybe even save costs by turning waste into energy. As with any solution, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Biomass teaches us a broader lesson: sometimes the old ways can be reinvented in new, cleaner forms to help build a greener future.

Q1 2025 Industry Insights: Contech & Cleantech

Francisco Javier Osete — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 07:56:28 +0000

April Fools’ season is here! This can only mean one thing: The first quarter of 2025 is officially in the books. If you’re wondering what went down during the first few (definitely not quiet) months of the year, we’ve got you covered.

In this quick-read article, we’re breaking down the latest investment moves across Contech and Cleantech that have been applied to the built environment. With the construction industry in the thick of a digital and sustainable transformation, the Cemex Ventures investment team has rounded up the key trends and insights from January to March.

So, let’s take a look at Q1!

Q1 2025 Summary

In the first quarter of 2025, the total investment volume reached US$1.39 billion across 99 deals. Compared to Q1 2024, this represents a 85% increase in the number of transactions—despite prevailing uncertainty, Q1 has performed well relative to the same period last year. That said, it will be important to assess the impact of broader macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty as the year progresses.

Total investment: $1.39Bn

Total number of deals: 99

Investment by Focus Area

Construction technologies are at the forefront of transforming the way we build. In Q1 2025, Cemex Ventures’ investment strategy was focused on 4 key market-driven opportunities. Here’s how the investment was distributed across these transformative areas:

Green Construction (GC): 36%

Construction Supply Chain (CSC): 19%

Enhanced Productivity (EP): 33%

Future of Construction (FC): 12%

The biggest shift compared to Q1 2024 came from Construction Supply Chain solutions, which jumped from capturing just 8% of total investment to an impressive 19%. Meanwhile, Future of Construction technologies also gained momentum, nearly doubling their investment volume year over year.

In terms of the amount of money invested (%), Green Construction (36%) was the most active Focus Area, encompassing solutions related to decarbonization, Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS), circular business models, sustainable materials, water conservation, etc. Following very closely behind was investment in Enhanced Productivity (33%), which includes solutions such as project design and budgeting, geotechnical analysis, project bidding, and document management, among other solutions that improve construction efficiency.

Investment by Region

Continuing the trends from 2024 & 2023, most of Contech & Cleantech investments – almost 50% – in the first quarter were concentrated in the United States. However, we saw a significant increase in capital deployed across Europe and the Asia Pacific (APAC) regions compared to Q1 2024. For more information about last year’s investment by region, download the Top 50 Contech Startups Report 2025.

North America: 49%

Europe: 32%

APAC: 12%

Middle East: 4%

LATAM: 2%

Africa: 0%

The top countries by investment amount in Q1 were the United States, India, Germany, and France, solidifying their position as the most active markets in innovative construction technologies.

Fun fact: 5 of the 6 largest deals in Q1 have been concentrated in the US

Top Deals Q1

Cemex Ventures’ investment team compiles a monthly roundup of the most significant deals within the Contech & Cleantech ecosystem. Below are the top three transactions from Q1, reflecting key developments in these sectors:

Brimstone received $189M in grant – US: In January, Brimstone finalized an up to US$189M federal award for an efficient and sustainable Rock Refinery that co-produces Portland cement and alumina from US-sourced rocks. Read more!

Infra.Market closed $125M in Series F funding – India: In January, the building materials platform Infra.Market rose around US$125M in its Series F funding round. This followed the completion of the final tranche of its Series E round in September 2024. Read more!

Terra CO2 secured $82M in Series B funding – US: In February, the leading US-based low-carbon building materials company secured US$82M in Series B equity commitments from a mix of financial and strategic investors. Read more!

ICON closed $56M in Series C funding – US: In February, the pioneer in the 3D printing of homes closed US$56M in Series C funding co-led by Norwest Venture Partners and Tiger Global. Read more!

BuildOps raised $127M in Series C funding – US: In March, the AI-powered platform that simplifies project management and service for commercial contractors announced that it raised US$127M in new funding, raising its valuation to US$1Bn. Read more!

Zeitview announced a capital raise of $60M – US: In March, Zeitview, the leader in visual AI for critical infrastructure, announced a capital raise of US$60M led by Climate Investment, with participation from current investors Valor Equity Partners, among others. Read more!

Key conclusions from Cemex Ventures’ Investment Experts

Wrapping up, here are the key takeaways from the investment experts at Cemex Ventures:

Although the global macroeconomic uncertainty, there has been a significant increase in investment activity compared to the same period in 2024.

Early-stage rounds (Pre-Seed, Seed & Series A) still dominate the investment activity; however, there has been a slight increase in late-stage rounds (Series B & C). There is still some confidence in a few mature and stablished solutions.

In terms of focus areas, Green Construction and Enhanced Productivity lead with nearly 70% of the transactions registered. A significant change compared to Q1 2024 is the considerable increase in capital invested in Construction Supply Chain technologies.

Regarding regions, North America notably predominates, followed by Europe.

Whether you are a startup, SME, corporate, building professional, media journalist, or just want to find out more, we encourage you to contact us through our website or follow us on LinkedIn and X.

You can also keep up to date with the newest Contech deals and news by subscribing to our biweekly Contech Tacos newsletter!

Meet the Leaplab 3rd Edition Cohort!

Francisco Javier Osete — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 06:44:30 +0000

At Cemex Ventures, through our exclusive acceleration program, Leaplab, we are shaping the next generation of startups, empowering businesses to expand and grow. This third edition featured an open call, bringing in high-potential solutions and top-tier mentors to join the new cohort. After a huge number of applications and months of evaluation, we can finally say—a new chapter begins!

Let’s welcome Leaplab’s latest cohort: six extraordinary startups from four countries tackling global strategic challenges and unlocking business opportunities with their groundbreaking solutions: EarthTrack, Emidat, FuelHub, Guidewheel, Optocycle, and Sodex.

If you want to learn more, dive into this 5-minute read as we break down the key points from Leaplab’s 3rd edition!

A Closer Look at the Acceleration Program

The 3^rdedition of Leaplab will feature six startups working intensively for 16 weeks on real-scale pilots, deploying their solutions in close to 40 sites impacting all Cemex business lines:

Cement

Ready-Mix

Aggregates

Urbanization Solutions

The new Leaplab cohort will receive support from the expertise of approximately 80 specialists, both from Cemex and external partners. These experts will play a crucial role in offering piloting guidance, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help startups refine and scale their solutions. Upon successfully completing the program, the startups and their Cemex pilot teams will showcase their results and key learnings to Cemex Executive Committee in the Demo Day 2025 – an event that represents a prime opportunity for startups to demonstrate their ability to create value and forge strategic collaborations with Cemex.

Major highlight: Graduates of the Cemex Ventures Leaplab Program have the potential opportunity to secure Commercial Agreements with one or more Cemex business units. Moreover, if there are positive pilot results and scalability potential, it could open the door to investment considerations from Cemex Ventures.

Say Hello to the New Cohort

EarthTrack (Singapore) has developed a solution that connects with the client’s existing enterprise resource planning (ERP), unlocking automation and capacity, and empowering workers by putting technology directly into their hands, transforming digital warehousing processes. The Singapore-based startup will run its pilot with Cemex in Mexico, within the Cement business line.
Emidat (Germany) has created a tool that enables AI-powered generation and verification of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), making environmental impact assessments faster and more cost-effective for building material manufacturers. Emidat will conduct its pilot with Cemex in Germany and the UK, within all business lines.
FuelHub (United States) is a managed service provider that delivers optimized solutions for diesel procurement, payment terms, inventory management, and support invoice reconciliation. The American startup will carry out its pilot with Cemex in the US within the Cement, Concrete, and Aggregates business lines.
Guidewheel (United States) provides AI-powered FactoryOps solutions that optimize productivity, predict maintenance needs, and enhance energy efficiency through real-time operational insights. Guidewheel will execute its pilot with Cemex in the United States within the Cement business line.
Optocycle (Germany) combines next-generation optical sensor technology in real-time with advanced AI to transform construction demolition waste into sustainable building materials through its characterization. The German startup will develop its pilot with Cemex in Germany and France within the Urbanization Solutions business line.
Sodex: (Austria) automates surveying through laser scanners and camera technology installed directly on heavy mobile equipment. Sodex will run its pilot with Cemex in the US and UK within the Cement and Aggregates business lines.

Why Join Cemex Ventures Leaplab?

Piloting, testing, and scaling a startup demands significant resources and time, with even greater challenges in a capital-intensive industry like construction. Cemex Ventures Leaplab tackles these obstacles by connecting high-potential startups with Cemex’s extensive expertise and infrastructure, accelerating their growth path.

Here’s why Leaplab is the right opportunity for your innovative company:

Access to Cemex’s global network and connection with a world leader in sustainable building solutions.

Full-scale pilot to demonstrate impact in real-world environments.

Growth supported by insights and tailored mentorship from top industry and business experts.

Partnership opportunities for long-term collaboration with Cemex & Cemex Ventures.

Leaplab is much more than an accelerator—it’s the ultimate platform to grow and shape the future together. Big things are happening as each participant takes their #Leap, and we can’t wait to share their progress. Stay tuned for what’s next!

Are you ready to take the #Leap?

Press Release

Cemex Ventures Drives Construction Innovation with the 3rd Leaplab Edition

Madrid, April 9, 2025. Cemex Ventures, Cemex’s corporate venture capital and open innovation unit, launches the third edition of Leaplab, its intensive acceleration program designed for startups with the potential to revolutionize the construction industry. This year, six startups from four countries will join the cohort, bringing disruptive solutions addressing strategic challenges and unlocking business opportunities.

Leaplab offers startups the unique opportunity to connect and closely collaborate with Cemex global operations for this 16-week program. In addition to running a real-scale pilot, during this period, the selected companies will receive personalized mentorship from 80 industry experts and business advisors from Cemex and beyond who will enhance their solutions and support them to scale.

This edition’s startups have developed promising value propositions deeply connected to sustainability, operations efficiency and productivity. “The construction industry is at a turning point where technological innovation plays a crucial role, and at Cemex, we are determined to face this by betting on the talent of these startups,” says Karla Arrambide, Cemex Ventures Leaplab Manager. “Leaplab is a program that drives the sector’s transformation by connecting high-potential startups with Cemex’s experience and resources.”

Throughout the program, the startups will work closely with Cemex pilot teams, validating their technologies in Cemex sites across all business lines, presenting results at the program’s conclusion, and sharing key learnings with the Cemex Executive Committee. The Demo Day event represents a unique opportunity for startups to showcase their capacity to generate value and establish strategic collaborations with Cemex.

Participation in Leaplab not only offers startups an exceptional platform to scale their businesses. Upon successful graduation, these companies have the potential to sign commercial agreements with various Cemex business units, opening doors to long-term collaboration. Furthermore, Cemex Ventures can also consider strategic investments in those that demonstrate positive results and a high potential for scalability, thus consolidating their growth, expansion, and inclusion in the current market.

Without further ado, we are proud to formally announce the extraordinary startups that will make up the Leaplab 2025 Cohort.

EarthTrack (Singapore)

Emidat (Germany)

FuelHub (US)

Guidewheel (US)

Optocycle (Germany)

Sodex (Austria)

About Cemex Ventures

About Cemex

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Cemex Ventures BV is an indirect subsidiary of Cemex, S.A.B. de C.V. Except as the context otherwise may require, references in this press release to “Cemex,” ”we,” ”us,” ”our,” refer to Cemex, S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE: CX) and its consolidated subsidiaries. This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws. Cemex intends these forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements in the U.S. federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements reflect Cemex’s current expectations and projections about future events based on Cemex’s knowledge of present facts and circumstances and assumptions about future events, as well as Cemex’s current plans based on such facts and circumstances, unless otherwise indicated. These statements necessarily involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from Cemex’s expectations, including, among others, risks, uncertainties, and assumptions discussed in Cemex’s most recent annual report and detailed from time to time in Cemex’s other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Mexican Stock Exchange (Bolsa Mexicana de Valores), which factors are incorporated herein by reference, which if materialized could ultimately lead to Cemex’s expectations, expected results, and/or the investment and projects referred herein not producing the expected benefits and/or results. Cemex assumes that the startups referenced in the list referred to in this press release have the rights to their corresponding projects. Cemex is not responsible for any ownership or rights issues that any startup may have with respect to their corresponding project. Forward-looking statements should not be considered guarantees of future performance, nor the results or developments are indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods. These factors may be revised or supplemented, and the information contained in this press release is subject to change without notice, but Cemex is not under, and expressly disclaims, any obligation to update or correct this press release or revise any forward-looking statement contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances. Any or all of Cemex’s forward-looking statements may turn out to be inaccurate. Accordingly, undue reliance on forward-looking statements should not be placed, as such forward-looking statements speak only as of the dates on which they are made. The content of this press release is for informational purposes only, and you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Cemex is not responsible for any third-party information referenced in this press release.

There is currently no single globally recognized or accepted, consistent, and comparable set of definitions or standards (legal, regulatory, or otherwise) of, nor widespread cross-market consensus i) as to what constitutes, a ‘green’, ‘social,’ or ‘sustainable’ or having equivalent-labeled activity, product, or asset; or ii) as to what precise attributes are required for a particular activity, product, or asset to be defined as ‘green’, ‘social,’ or ‘sustainable’ or such other equivalent label; or iii) as to climate and sustainable funding and financing activities and their classification and reporting. Therefore, there is little certainty, and no assurance or representation is given that such activities and/or reporting of those activities will meet any present or future expectations or requirements for describing or classifying funding and financing activities as ‘green’, ‘social’, or ‘sustainable’ or attributing similar labels. We expect policies, regulatory requirements, standards, and definitions to be developed and continuously evolve over time.

Uncategorized – Cemex Ventures

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