CRH Ventures Launches Sustainable Building Materials Accelerator to Scale Innovative Startups Shaping the Future of Construction
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NEW YORK — CRH Ventures, the venture capital arm of CRH, a leading building materials solutions provider, has announced the launch of its new accelerator focused on Sustainable Building Materials. Applications for the program are open until December 16. As CRH leads the transition toward smarter, more sustainable construction practices, the Sustainable Building Materials accelerator will target promising Seed, Series A, and Series B-stage companies in the construction technology (contech) and climate tech sectors that have market-ready products. The initiative aims to discover innovative materials and applications that reduce emissions, minimize waste, and enhance energy efficiency, leveraging CRH’s extensive network and expertise to propel sustainable solutions in the built environment.
The accelerator will concentrate on three primary areas to promote sustainable construction:
Sustainable binder solutions
Companies that enhance the carbon performance or circularity of traditional cement and concrete materials.
New materials and applications
Companies developing novel materials or innovative uses for existing materials to create alternative solutions for cement and concrete applications.
CO2 mineralized materials
Companies utilizing CO2 in binders, aggregates, waste feedstocks, or concrete to create building materials that also offer carbon storage.
This accelerator will identify startups ready to seize the significant market opportunities presented by decarbonization and will support them in scaling their operations. CRH Ventures will facilitate pilot programs for each shortlisted applicant, connecting them with commercial users and aiding in technology refinement alongside selected partners in the construction sector. Startups will also gain access to CRH’s network of over 200 operating companies, providing insights from CRH experts and opportunities for collaboration as they advance their technologies. Participants may also be considered for potential investments from CRH Ventures following the pilot programs.
Eduardo Gomez, Head of CRH Ventures, stated: “There’s an incredible opportunity to reduce construction-related emissions and enhance circularity through innovation. At CRH, we’re uniquely positioned to support the development of sustainable and innovative solutions and technologies to meet the changing needs of construction. In launching the Sustainable Building Materials accelerator, we plan to identify the most impactful innovations, and drive their commercial development through our network to support the construction industry to decarbonize and help CRH achieve its 2050 net-zero ambition.”
Applications will be accepted via the CRH Ventures website until December 16. The selection process will take place throughout November and December, culminating in a live pitch day in early February 2025 for the most promising 10-12 startups.
Founded in 2022, CRH Ventures has established itself as a leader in construction innovation, backed by a $250 million venturing and innovation investment fund and a growing portfolio of companies transforming the construction value chain.
The Sustainable Building Materials program is CRH Ventures’ third accelerator, following the successful launch of the Roads of the Future accelerator earlier this year, which focused on innovations impacting the roads ecosystem, and a Water Solutions accelerator launched in 2023, targeting technologies for various water management challenges.
About CRH Ventures
CRH Ventures is the venture capital unit of CRH, the premier provider of building materials solutions that enhance our world. With access to a $250 million Venturing and Innovation Fund, CRH Ventures strategically partners with and invests in contech and climate tech startups across the entire construction value chain. For more information, visit www.crhventures.com.
About CRH
CRH (NYSE: CRH, LSE: CRH) is the leading provider of building materials solutions that build, connect, and improve our world. Employing approximately 78,500 people across about 3,390 locations in 28 countries, CRH holds market leadership in both North America and Europe. As a key partner in transportation, utility infrastructure projects, complex non-residential construction, and outdoor living solutions, CRH offers a unique array of materials, products, and services that foster a more resilient and sustainable built environment. Recognized by Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating agencies, CRH is a Fortune 500 company with shares listed on the NYSE and LSE. For more information, visit www.crh.com.