Funding to Support Commercialization of Its Innovative Circular Recycling Process for Aluminum Residues
Baie-Comeau, May 9, 2025 — Lefebvre Industri-AL, a technology company specializing in the circular recycling of aluminum residues from primary production, today announced the closing of a CAD $7.5 million investment round led by Fondaction and the Circular Innovation Fund — managed by Cycle Capital and Demeter — with the participation of Investissement Québec acting on behalf of the Government of Quebec.
The investment round was announced in Baie-Comeau during a press conference attended by Yves Montigny, Member of the National Assembly for René-Lévesque.
The company’s proprietary RAME® (Eco-Responsible Aluminum Recycling) technology, developed by this family-owned SME, is the only process capable of closed-loop recycling of aluminum residues — including fine particles — from primary aluminum producers, without generating greenhouse gases or requiring landfill. RAME® recovers more aluminum than traditional technologies, offering significant environmental and financial advantages for smelter clients.
Regional and International Impact
Lefebvre Industri-AL, an innovative Canadian company focused on recycling residues from primary aluminum production, plans to soon deploy two new plants in Quebec in close collaboration with key industry players. Internationally, a strategic partnership with a multinational corporation will serve as a launchpad for a licensing-based deployment model, accelerating the rollout of several plants in Europe, the Middle East, and South America. A digital twin approach will enable the replication of the optimal plant while minimizing engineering costs for new construction.
Decarbonizing the Industry and Supply Chain
Aluminum is a lightweight, durable, and infinitely recyclable metal, but its production is energy-intensive and generates by-products that are typically landfilled. The RAME® technology, which uses electricity instead of fossil fuels, returns a large portion of an aluminum smelter’s residues directly back into the primary production line — helping the industry move closer to its green aluminum goals. A perfect example of industrial-scale circular economy.
Quotes
“In Quebec, we are fortunate to have innovative green aluminum initiatives. Today, by investing $2.5 million in Lefebvre Industri-AL’s project, we are supporting the productivity of an SME that is moving in that direction. Especially in today’s context, it is vital to continue investing in our key sectors — and green aluminum is definitely one of them.”
— Christine Fréchette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, and Minister Responsible for Regional Economic Development
“I applaud the boldness and vision of the Lefebvre Industri-AL team! This local company allows Quebec to continue standing out through its expertise and technological advances that enhance the circularity of the aluminum industry and reduce its environmental footprint. Its future looks bright, and we’re proud of that.”
— Yves Montigny, MNA for René-Lévesque
“The technology developed by Lefebvre Industri-AL is an innovative solution that brings circular economy principles to a strategic sector. Recycling aluminum residues allows this primary transformation industry to become greener and more competitive in the race to decarbonize. This is the kind of innovation we are proud to support — and it contributes to the positive transformation of our economy. It also showcases the innovative capabilities of Quebec entrepreneurs.”
— Alain Longpré, Deputy Chief, Impact and Sustainable Investment, Fondaction
“Lefebvre Industri-AL’s innovative recycling technology avoids over 95% of the GHG emissions typically generated by aluminum production. Decarbonizing this sector, which is key to the energy transition, is of strategic importance. The Circular Innovation Fund is excited to support the Lefebvre Industri-AL team in its growth and expansion in Canada, Europe, and the Middle East.”
— Andrée-Lise Méthot, Founder and Managing Partner, Cycle Capital
“We are thrilled about this strategic investment, which represents a turning point in our pursuit of excellence, innovation, and expansion. With this support, we will be able to achieve our ambitious goals while contributing more significantly to reducing the environmental impact of the aluminum industry in Quebec and globally.”
— Joanne Lefebvre, President and CEO, Lefebvre Industri-AL
About Lefebvre Industri-AL
A family business founded in 2000, Lefebvre Industri-AL has built a strong presence in the aluminum industry by providing innovative solutions aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of both its own operations and those of its clients. Initially offering full alloy management services for the local smelter, the company developed a world-unique eco-responsible aluminum residue recycling process (RAME®). Known for its service excellence and ability to adapt to clients’ needs, the company places employee satisfaction and well-being at the heart of its priorities. In line with its sustainable development principles, Lefebvre Industri-AL is committed to being a responsible corporate citizen that actively contributes to the development of its region.
About Fondaction
Fondaction has been a pioneer for over 25 years, acting as the investment fund for those mobilizing to positively transform Quebec’s economy — making it fairer, greener, more inclusive, and more efficient. As a labour-sponsored fund created at the initiative of the CSN (Confédération des syndicats nationaux), Fondaction represents tens of thousands of savers and hundreds of committed companies. As of November 30, 2024, it manages over $3.99 billion in net assets, invested largely in hundreds of businesses and financial markets, with a preference for investments that generate positive economic, social, and environmental impacts, along with financial returns. Fondaction supports job creation and retention, reduces inequality, and fights climate change. For more information, visit fondaction.com or our LinkedIn page.
About the Circular Innovation Fund
The Circular Innovation Fund (CIF) is a global venture capital fund solely focused on circular innovation. It is a joint venture between leading cleantech fund managers — Demeter in Paris and Cycle Capital in Montreal. CIF invests in growth-stage companies in North America, Europe, and Asia that are developing breakthrough materials, circular packaging, waste and recycling innovations, logistics solutions, eco-efficient processes and designs, and circular business models. For more information, visit www.circularinnovationfund.com.