MCatalysis, Inc., an advanced technology startup focused on sustainable fuels and chemicals, has closed its seed funding round led by HL Energy Ventures (HLEV). The investment will accelerate the scale-up of its proprietary microwave catalysis platform, secured under an exclusive worldwide license agreement with Oxford University Innovation (OUI), the technology transfer arm of Oxford University.
Breakthrough Technology for Circular Economy
Founded in 2025, MCatalysis is pioneering the use of industrial microwave processes and novel catalysts to repurpose carbon waste—ranging from agricultural residues and plastic waste to industrial gas streams—into low-cost synthetic fuels and chemicals. The process significantly enhances efficiency, reduces energy consumption, and improves product selectivity, positioning the company at the forefront of clean energy innovation.
Strategic Backing from HLEV
CEO Michael Irwin described the funding and license agreement as “a pivotal moment” for the company’s mission to democratize the petrochemical supply chain. HLEV CEO Victor Liu highlighted MCatalysis’s potential for both commercial success and environmental impact, praising the company’s founders and their breakthrough technology.
Oxford Partnership for Global Impact
Through its exclusive license with OUI, MCatalysis now holds global rights to key intellectual property developed at Oxford University. OUI, with over three decades of commercialization expertise, emphasized the collaboration as an example of how academic innovation can drive industrial transformation and support a sustainable future.
About MCatalysis, Inc.
Based in Dallas, MCatalysis develops advanced microwave catalysis systems for producing sustainable fuels and chemicals from waste carbon. The company aims to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. www.mcatalysis.com
About HL Energy Ventures
HLEV is an early-stage venture capital firm backing mission-driven founders in advanced technology and sustainability. www.hlenergyventures.com
About Oxford University Innovation
OUI is Oxford University’s research commercialization office, dedicated to licensing intellectual property, supporting startups, and driving global innovation. innovation.ox.ac.uk
