Seville-based startup Catalyxx has secured €3 million to expand its research center focused on renewable chemicals and sustainable aviation fuel. The round was led by Axon Partners Group, through its Axon Desarrollo Andalucía fund, backed by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Regional Government of Andalusia.
The funding will help Catalyxx grow its facility in Seville. CEO Joaquín Alarcón de la Lastra said it’s a big step toward scaling the company’s proprietary green chemistry platform worldwide.
Turning Bioethanol Into High-Value Sustainable Chemicals
Catalyxx, founded in 2017 by the former Abengoa executive, uses a non-fermentative process to turn bioethanol into renewable compounds like biobutanol, biohexanol, biooctanol, and biodecanol. These products serve as cleaner, greener substitutes for fossil-based chemicals in industries like paints, adhesives, and cosmetics.
Unlike traditional processes, Catalyxx’s technology offers higher efficiency and reduces carbon emissions. The startup has now raised over €18 million in the past year alone, with investors such as Aether Chemical Investments, the EIC Accelerator, and Axon joining the cause.
According to Macarena González, Investment Manager at Axon in Andalusia, Catalyxx stands out as a company that could put the region on the map for sustainable chemical innovation.
Preparing for Industrial Scale in France
Catalyxx is also gearing up to build its first industrial plant in France. The European Investment Bank has given pre-approval for €37 million in funding to support the project. This First-Of-A-Kind (FOAK) facility will be operated in partnership with a local company.
Due diligence will start in July in Seville, and full approval is expected soon after. The new site will produce biobutanol at industrial scale, using Catalyxx’s patented tech.
The EIB sees this project as vital for Europe’s push to decarbonise the chemical sector. By replacing fossil inputs with bio-based alternatives, Catalyxx is building a platform for a low-carbon, circular chemical industry.
