What is Kior?
Kior operates at the intersection of sustainable energy and transportation, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign oil through the production of cellulosic gasoline and diesel. The company's unique technology platform is designed to convert abundant, non-food biomass into fuels compatible with existing vehicle fleets and distribution networks. By focusing on renewable resources, Kior seeks to lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously fostering economic benefits in rural communities through job creation.
How much funding has Kior raised?
Kior has raised a total of $225M across 2 funding rounds:
Stock Offering
$150M
Debt
$75M
Stock Issuance/Offering (2011): $150M, investors not publicly disclosed
Debt (2012): $75M led by Government of Alberta and Khosla Ventures
Key Investors in Kior
Government of Alberta
The Government of Alberta, through its environmental initiatives, likely supports companies like Kior that align with sustainable energy goals and economic development in the region.
Khosla Ventures
Khosla Ventures, a prominent venture capital firm, typically invests in breakthrough technologies across various sectors, including sustainable energy, indicating a strategic interest in Kior's innovative fuel conversion platform.
What's next for Kior?
With substantial enterprise-level backing and a recent strategic investment, Kior is positioned for a significant scaling phase. The company's focus will likely shift towards expanding its production capabilities and solidifying its market presence. Continued investment in its proprietary technology platform will be crucial for optimizing conversion efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Kior's strategic direction suggests a move towards broader commercial deployment, potentially exploring partnerships to enhance its distribution channels and market reach, thereby reinforcing its role in the transition to sustainable transportation fuels.
See full Kior company page