AGORACOM Small Cap CEO Interviews AGORACOM

In electric vehicle (EV) batteries, the anode serves as a critical component, acting as a storage vessel for lithium ions that are then released when the battery is being used to power the car. 

Graphite anodes, the current market dominators, have reached their peak energy density. This limitation is prompting a shift toward Silicon-based anodes, which offer up to 10 times the energy density. 

Major players like Porsche, Mercedes, and GM are embracing this technology, recognizing its potential to revolutionize EV performance. 

But while silicon-based anode materials hold great promise for batteries, they are known to suffer from significant degradation during charging and discharging cycles. Solving this problem will open up a market for silicon anode materials that could reach $130B by 2033.

ENTER HPQ SILICON INC. (TSX-V: HPQ) (OTCQB: HPQFF) 

HPQ Silicon is positioning itself to become a key supplier of Silicon materials in battery anodes, which aligns with the US and Canadian government initiatives to establish domestic battery manufacturing ecosystems in an effort to reduce reliance on China. 

Novacium, HPQ's France-based affiliate, has acquired patents enhancing anode material performance, particularly in silicon-based Li-ion batteries. With the pressing demand for domestic battery material suppliers, HPQ Silicon's advancements in silicon-based anode material position it as a crucial player in meeting the evolving needs of the electric vehicle industry while addressing supply chain vulnerabilities.

OVERALL CAPACITY IMPROVEMENT OF ~30% VS. GRAPHITE BENCHMARK

HPQ announced remarkable results from the initial 50-cycle tests of GEN2 material. These tests demonstrated a 30% improvement in capacity compared to graphite benchmarks and a 14% enhancement over their GEN1 materials, positioning the company at the forefront of the battery innovation race.

MINIMAL DEGRADATION

The GEN2 material displayed minimal cycle degradation, with only about a 1% increase over 50 cycles, indicating robust durability.

STRATEGIC VISION

The results underscore HPQ’s strategic vision to become a leading manufacturer of advanced silicon-based anode materials in North America and Europe.

TRANSFORMING BATTERY TECHNOLOGY

The tests, conducted on 18650 industrial batteries, revealed the following:


Capacity Comparison: Batteries with 100% graphite showed an average capacity of 2,775 mAh, while those with GEN1 and GEN2 materials exhibited 3,174 mAh and 3,379 mAh respectively.
Durability Insights: Over the 50 cycles, GEN2 materials not only maintained superior capacity but also demonstrated negligible degradation, ensuring longer battery life.

Dr. Jed Kraiem, COO of Novacium, emphasized the practical implications of these results, stating, 

“These results continue to showcase our ability to produce a blend of graphite and advanced silicon anode material that can be seamlessly integrated into existing anode manufacturing facilities, improving overall battery performance.”

Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO of HPQ Silicon Inc., noted, 

“These achievements open new doors for HPQ as we strive to become a manufacturer of next-gen engineered silicon-based anode materials in jurisdictions that support these types of initiatives.”

As HPQ Silicon Inc. and Novacium continue to push the boundaries of battery technology, their GEN2 anode materials mark a critical step forward. This breakthrough not only highlights HPQ's innovative capabilities but also underscores its potential for significant market impact. 

HPQ Silicon is on the verge of disrupting the manufacturing process of Fumed Silica and becoming the sole provider capable of satisfying the strong demand for low carbon Fumed Silica products.

How disruptive is the HPQ Silicon Process?  


Energy Consumption  90% Lower
Greenhouse Gases  84-88% Lower
Capital Costs 93% Lower
Hydrogen Chloride Gas Complete Elimination

GIANTS OF FUMED SILICA MARKET HAVE TAKEN NOTICE AND SIGNED NDAs

More than just talk, the Fumed Silica industry has taken notice as evidenced by multiple NDAs with leading manufacturers immediately after HPQ announced the successful production of Fumed Silica samples through its proprietary Reactor technology.

It's time for investors to take a closer look at the groundbreaking strides HPQ is making in reducing the carbon footprint, while also shattering the economics of the Fumed Silica industry. 

These multiple non-disclosure agreements with leading manufacturers in the Fumed Silica space attest to HPQ's remarkable achievements. But what exactly is Fumed Silica, and why is the industry buzzing about it?

UNVEILING FUMED SILICA

Fumed Silica, a versatile micro-powder, isn't just another industrial substance. Its potential to reshape numerous industries, from cosmetics and toothpaste to powdered foods, makes it a game-changer across personal care, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, adhesives, construction, batteries, and beyond.

A MILESTONE IN GREEN ENGINEERING AND COMMERCIALIZATION PATHWAY

The company has taken a significant step towards commercialization and is advancing with the pre-commissioning of a 50 tonnes per year (TPY) FSR Pilot Plant, signalling promising prospects.

OPERATIONAL PILOT PLANT BY EARLY IN Q3 

The pre-commissioning phase is progressing well, setting the stage for the pilot plant's operational launch in Q3. This milestone is pivotal as HPQ aims to transition from lab-scale production to commercial-grade outputs, addressing the high demand for eco-friendly fumed silica. The pilot plant will initially produce fumed silica with specific surface areas between 150 and 200 m²/g, eventually targeting over 300 m²/g for food and pharma applications.

MULTIPLE COMMERCIAL PLANTS GLOBALLY

The company is preparing for a future that could see the deployment of numerous 1,000-ton per year reactors to meet global demand. The local production model reduces transportation costs and environmental impact, further enhancing HPQ's competitive edge.

WORDS FROM HPQ CEO

Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO of HPQ Silicon and HPQ Silica Polvere, stated, 

"The materials produced will be sent to several potential clients under nondisclosure agreements for qualification. These potential clients, who have expressed keen interest in our material, could become strategic partners in our journey. We aim to negotiate offtake agreements for our low-carbon fumed silica material with them."

The updated technical and economic study reveals remarkable cost efficiency and market potential:


Capital Expenditure: Around US$10 per Kg of annual capacity, drastically lower than the traditional US$146 per Kg, reducing entry costs by about 93%.
Energy Efficiency: Consuming 10-15 KWh per Kg of fumed silica, versus the conventional 100-120 KWh, marking a 90% reduction.
Profit Margins: Revised EBITDA margins for fumed silica with 150 m²/g surface area range from 72% to 80%, significantly higher than the industry average of 20%.

These figures underline the transformative potential of HPQ's technology, which not only slashes production costs but also enhances environmental sustainability.

If you knew that silicon is the second most abundant element in the earth's crust (behind only oxygen) and the eighth-most common element in the universe, you’d have very little reason to be concerned about it, let alone fear it. 

 

But that would change quickly if you knew that Silicon Metal manufacturing is the largest emitter of CO2 on the planet (on a per-ton basis).  That concern would only continue to grow if you knew that Silicon Metal is used to create Fumed Silica, which is used in our everyday lives through products such as cosmetics, toothpaste and powdered foods.

 

HPQ SILICON DISRUPTIVE TECH IS SHATTERING ALL KEY METRICS IN THE WORLD OF FUMED SILICA FROM DOLLARS TO CARBON

 

HPQ Silicon is on the verge of disrupting the manufacturing process of Fumed Silica and becoming the sole provider capable of satisfying the strong demand for low carbon Fumed Silica products well into the future.

 

How disruptive is the HPQ Silicon Process?  


Energy Consumption  93% Lower
Greenhouse Gases  84-88% Lower
CAPEX 93% Less
Hydrogen Chloride Gas  Complete Elimination

A REVOLUTIONARY LEAP IN FUMED SILICA PRODUCTION

HPQ Silicon announced a pivotal development in its collaboration with PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (TSX: PYR) (OTCQX: PYRGF) (FRA: 8PY). PyroGenesis, which had the right to a 10% gross sales royalty, has opted to convert this royalty into a 50% ownership stake in HPQ Polvere, HPQ’s wholly-owned subsidiary focused on the innovative Fumed Silica Reactor (FSR) project.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP STRENGTHENED

"PyroGenesis’ decision to exercise its option early, as we commence the next phase of commercial validation, highlights their strong commitment to our project," said Bernard Tourillon, President, and CEO of HPQ Silicon and HPQ Silica Polvere. "This move also mitigates future financing risks and eliminates a prospective obstacle in our ongoing discussions with potential partners in the development of the fumed silica business."

With PyroGenesis’ conversion, the partnership is set to deepen, aligning both companies' interests more closely. This shift enhances the potential benefit to HPQ from the future success of HPQ Polvere and fortifies the collaborative effort to bring this innovative technology to market.

MARKET POTENTIAL AND COMPETITIVE EDGE

The fumed silica market, valued at $1.9 billion in 2023, is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 5.5%, reaching $3.1 billion by 2032. This growth translates to a requirement of approximately 16,000 additional tonnes of capacity annually. HPQ Polvere’s FSR technology is poised to capitalize on this expanding market, offering significant economic and environmental advantages over traditional manufacturing methods.

A PROMISING FUTURE

HPQ Polvere’s innovative approach positions it strongly against established industry giants. As the market for fumed silica continues to grow, the company's eco-friendly and cost-effective production method provides a significant competitive edge. This strategic move by PyroGenesis not only strengthens their partnership with HPQ but also underscores the immense potential of the FSR project.

Did you know that artificial intelligence is playing a paradigm shifting role in the future of healthcare?  

Specifically, we all know that hospital care is suffering from a shortage of doctors, nurses and even beds as North American populations get older and grow.

The solution is REMOTE PATIENT MONITORING (a.k.a. virtual care) which allows doctors to monitor and manage non-critical patients from a distance. 

The global market for remote patient monitoring is projected to reach $41.7B in 2026.

“Virtual Care Is Transforming The Future Of Healthcare” Forbes.com

INTRODUCING CLOUD DX

Enter Cloud DX the largest supplier of Remote Patient Monitoring in Canada and a leading North American provider that has been achieving remarkable financial success and even greater growth.

Fiscal Year 2023 Highlights

Revenue:   $1.8M vs $1.17M in 2022  (+55% YoY)

Gross Profit:  $1.28M vs $602K in 2022  (+113% YoY)

Cloud DX AI technology significantly improves patient care by enabling efficient remote monitoring. This innovation helps reduce the burden on healthcare systems and ensures patients receive timely and effective care at home.

Market Dominance

So far in 2024, Cloud DX has announced 26 new contracts with hospitals, paramedic services, US clinics, and 2 Canadian Provinces with a total value of $14.6 million CAD - serving as proof positive the Company has hit an inflection point in it's market acceptance and growth.

User-Friendly and Comprehensive

The Connected Health Kit includes medical devices linked to a tablet, making it easy for patients to monitor their health. Pre-programmed instructions and secure communication with healthcare providers enhance user experience and care quality.

Enhanced Patient EngagementBy enabling secure messaging and telemedicine visits, the system empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare, leading to improved satisfaction and outcomes.

High-Profile CollaborationsPartnerships with industry giants like Medtronic and Teledoc Health position Cloud DX as a leader in remote patient monitoring. These alliances are crucial for scaling operations and expanding market reach on a global scale in 2024 and beyond.

Substantial Market OpportunityWith an addressable market of over 19 million patients annually, Cloud DX remote monitoring solutions have significant revenue potential. 

Financial Strength and Future Prospects

The launch of their first US command center in San Diego in 2024 marks a significant step in their expansion plans, promising enhanced service delivery and market penetration.

Long-Term Contracts and RenewalsRecord shattering renewal rates of 95% and long-lasting contracts in Canada demonstrate Cloud DX's commitment to customer satisfaction and sustained growth.

AWARDS

In addition to great market acceptance and revenue growth, Cloud DX has received multiple prestigious awards including:

Co-winner of the Qualcomm Tricorder XPRIZE, winner of "2022 Top Innovator" from Canadian Business, a 2021 "Edison Award" winner, a Fast Company "World Changing Idea" finalist, and one of "Canada's Ten Most Prominent Telehealth Providers.

9.4 MILLION CONTRACT

Founder and CEO Robert Kaul stated:

 "The announcement of the Provincial Remote Patient Monitoring contract by the British Columbia PHSA marks a critical milestone in Cloud DX's growth. With an announced value of $9.4 million CAD this award proves that Remote Patient Monitoring has become a priority with Canadian Provincial Health Authorities. As the largest supplier of Remote Patient Monitoring in Canada Cloud DX now has the capability to bring the benefits of this new mode of care to well over 50% of the population. We look forward to working with all our Provincial Government partners to improve care for all Canadians."

Cloud DX is redefining the future of healthcare with its AI-powered remote monitoring technology. Their impressive track record, strategic partnerships, and substantial market potential make the

If you believe in the future of digital advertising and you should because 50% of TV advertising has shifted to digital and continues to accelerate, then you are going to love discovering Kidoz who is the absolute leader in child safe mobile advertising.   

 

Offering a secure platform for brands to engage with their target audience. This innovative approach has not only propelled Kidoz to the forefront of the adtech industry but has also revolutionized how brands connect with younger demographics in a safe and meaningful way.

 

Just How BIG Are We Talking?

Kidoz powers nearly 5,000 apps worldwide, reaching over 400 MILLION kids, teens, and families monthly.

Working With Top Brands


Disney
McDonald’s
Hasbro
Lego
Trusted Partner of Apple & Google

In the realm of mobile AdTech, Kidoz Inc. shines in Q1-2024. Despite market challenges, Q1 2024 revenues hit USD $1.79 million and recorded revenues of $13,326,824 in 2023

Financially, Kidoz has shown phenomenal growth, with revenues rising from $1.9 million in 2017 to $13.3 million in 2023.In Q1-2024, Kidoz saw a 7% revenue increase to nearly $1.8 million vs. Q1-23 revenue: $1.67M and a 43% rise in gross profit due to reduced operating expenses.

Significant cost efficiency was achieved in media costs, leading to improved profitability despite Q1 being the slowest quarter of the year.

Kidoz capitalizes on the shift from traditional TV to digital, specifically targeting kids on mobile games.

The platform provides interactive advertising opportunities, where users engage directly with ads, unlike passive viewing on YouTube.

 

With changes in tech privacy and cookie usage, Kidoz cookie-less, context-based approach offers a robust alternative, making it a strong competitor in the mobile gaming ad space.

 

Strategic Staffing and Partnerships

 

Kidoz expanded its workforce and forged seven new sales partnerships globally in 2023, aiming to enhance its market reach and operational capacity.

 

Comments From the CEO 

“We're proud of the revenue growth and financial improvements achieved in Q1 2024", stated Jason Williams, Kidoz CEO.  "The digital advertising landscape continues to evolve in 2024 with a transition from the heightened activity seen during the pandemic.  However, Kidoz has adapted its strategy and been successful refining our strategies to meet the changing market dynamics,” continued Williams.

 

Kidoz’s stellar Q1 2024 revenue and 2023 performance confirms its leadership in child-safe mobile advertising. Watch this compelling interview with Jason Williams, Kidoz Inc CEO. 

Financial Performance and Efficiency ImprovementsCompetitive Advantages in Mobile Gaming

HPQ Silicon has announced a significant partnership through a MOU with Impact Funding Europe (IFE), aiming to enhance their green technology projects. This collaboration seeks to leverage HPQ’s innovative silicon and silica-based technologies alongside IFE’s expertise in securing European Union funding, focusing on advancing sustainable industrial practices towards achieving global net-zero emissions.

Key Components of the HPQ-IFE Collaboration:

Focused Funding Initiatives: The partnership aims to utilize EU programs that may cover substantial project costs, prioritizing New Battery Technology and Green Hydrogen. This financial support is crucial for HPQ Silicon as it develops technologies like the PUREVAP™ Quartz Reduction Reactors and silicon-based anode materials for batteries.

Expertise and Track Record:

IFE’s success in international grant writing enhances HPQ’s capabilities to secure funding. The MOU plans to incorporate HPQ’s technologies into major EU-funded initiatives, tapping into the extensive funding available for the Green Deal and Industry Transformation, which exceeds 100 Billion EUR annually.

Anticipated Outcomes and Strategic Impact:

Advancing Technological Development: The collaboration is expected to expedite HPQ’s projects, particularly in creating low-cost, zero-emission silicon production and advanced materials for batteries. It also aims to explore the role of silicon in sustainable hydrogen production, furthering energy innovations.

Expanding Market Reach: 

Aligning with IFE allows HPQ to access broader European funding opportunities, enhancing its position as a leader in sustainable technology. This alliance aims to boost HPQ’s operational capabilities and market presence in the green technology field.

Leadership Perspective:

"We are excited to collaborate with Impact Funding Europe to unlock opportunities for securing EU funding in the fields of Green Hydrogen and New Battery Technology," said Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO of HPQ Silicon. "This partnership highlights our commitment to innovation and a sustainable future."

The MOU between HPQ Silicon and IFE signifies a pivotal step for HPQ in the global sustainability arena. It positions the company to significantly influence the development of green technologies, aligning with global efforts towards environmental sustainability. This collaboration promises to drive technological advancements and market expansion, positioning HPQ Silicon as a key player in the green technology sector and a compelling investment in the small-cap market.