Global Brain has invested in SUN METALON Inc. (Sun Metalon), a US-based deep-tech startup that redefines metal recycling processes, through its Shimadzu Future Innovation Fund L.P. (Shimadzu FIF). Metals are essential materials that form the foundation of products supporting modern life, including automobiles, smartphones, and infrastructure. In recent years, procurement costs for metals have continued to rise, driven by growing global demand, declining ore grades that increase mining costs, and escalating geopolitical risks. This price surge has been putting pressure on profit margins not only in the metals industry but across the entire manufacturing sector. Japan, in particular, relies on imports for nearly 100% of its metal resources, making the stable and efficient procurement of these materials a critical issue from the perspective of industrial competitiveness and economic security. Amid these challenges, there is a growing global demand for innovative approaches to securing a stable supply of metal resources. Sun Metalon has developed a proprietary metal recycling device that enables the on-site regeneration of metal scrap, previously discarded due to high impurity levels, into high-value metal resources. Compact and space-efficient, the device can be easily integrated into manufacturing lines and features low operating costs and low CO₂ emissions. This device is expected to promote more effective utilization of metal resources, reduce manufacturing costs, and ultimately enhance supply stability. Global Brain has decided to invest in Sun Metalon, recognizing the company’s technological innovation, the growth potential of the metal recycling market, and the strong development and commercialization capabilities of its management team. Through this investment, we aim to support the continued growth of Sun Metalon’s business in collaboration with Shimadzu Corporation.

About Sun Metalon

Location: Illinois, US
CEO: Kazuhiko Nishioka
Founded: February 2021
URL: https://sunmetalon.com/

About Shimadzu FIF

Name: Shimadzu Future Innovation Fund L.P.
General Partner: Global Brain Corporation
Fund Size: JPY 5 billion
Fund Term: 10 years

About Global Brain

Location: Tokyo, Japan
Representative: Yasuhiko Yurimoto
Founded: January 1998
URL: https://globalbrains.com

Global Brain has invested in SUN METALON Inc., a deep-tech startup that redefines metal recycling processes