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Appian and IFC Launch $1 Billion Fund for Critical Minerals Market

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Release time:2025-10-24

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This fund aims to support responsible mining projects that are critical for energy access and industrial growth.

UK-based private equity firm Appian Capital Advisory and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have launched a $1 billion ($750.72 million GBP) fund focused on developing critical minerals and metals projects in emerging markets. The IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, will contribute an initial $100 million to the fund, with further investments expected through the IFC’s asset management arm. Building on a decade-long investment partnership between the IFC and Appian, this fund aims to support responsible mining projects essential for energy access and industrial growth. The fund will invest in equity, debt, and royalty structures, targeting high-impact projects across emerging markets—particularly in Africa and Latin America. All investments will adhere to the IFC’s environmental, social, and governance standards, ensuring alignment with global best practices.

Michael Scherb, Founder and CEO of Appian, stated: "We are honored that IFC has entrusted Appian with managing this landmark fund. This is a strong validation of our ability to identify and responsibly develop high-quality assets, unlocking long-term value for our partners." "It also underscores the critical role the mining industry plays in driving sustainable economic growth and delivering lasting benefits to local communities, particularly in regions where development needs are most urgent." "The management team supported by this fund will now benefit from the backing of two leading institutions in our industry. We look forward to advancing this collaboration to accelerate the global development of responsible and sustainable resource projects." The fund’s initial investment will be directed toward the Santa Rita nickel-copper-cobalt mine in Brazil, owned by Appian’s subsidiary Atlantic Nickel. The project is currently transitioning to underground production and is expected to yield approximately 30,000 tonnes of nickel equivalent annually over the mine’s 30-year lifespan. International Finance Corporation will invest on par with other investors, based on valuations conducted by Citibank and Standard Chartered Bank. This marks IFC’s first-ever partnership with a metals and mining private equity investor—and represents the institution’s inaugural mining-focused fund targeting emerging markets.

The press release stated that the fund will support projects at various stages, fostering economic growth and social benefits in host countries by creating employment opportunities and enhancing capacity-building initiatives. This aligns with the International Finance Corporation’s mission to promote private sector development while delivering both financial returns and developmental impact. IFC Managing Director Makhtar Diop remarked: "IFC is delighted to collaborate once again with Appian to jointly develop this innovative investment tool. Mineral resources are essential for building industries, generating employment opportunities, and driving economic growth." He added, "Partnering with companies like Appian will help channel more private capital to areas where it is most needed, expanding access to critical resources and enabling local communities to benefit from the development of mineral assets." Earlier this year in April, Appian successfully completed the sale of Brazil-based mining company Mineração Vale Verde to China's Shandong Weiqiao Group, with the transaction valued at up to US$420 million (RMB 2.99 billion).


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