InnoEnergy takes the lead in a seven-digit pre-seed funding round for Qkera, a Munich-based advanced materials manufacturer pioneering solid-state electrolyte components for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. The investment is supported by UnternehmerTUM Funding for Innovators and several strategic angel investors.
InnoEnergy has also appointed Peter Schuhmacher, former president of BASF’s battery materials division, as a board member and strategic advisor to Qkera, bringing world-class expertise to guide the company’s next phase of growth.
Qkera was founded in 2024 as a spin-off from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The company develops advanced ceramic electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries that overcome barriers to mass commercialisation by delivering innovative, cost-effective, and scalable solutions that advance both current and next-generation battery technologies.
A breakthrough chemical process for superior batteries
Qkera’s breakthrough chemical process produces thin, flexible ceramic membranes in a single, high-yield step at significantly reduced temperatures—overcoming the brittleness, thickness, and production costs that have long limited ceramic electrolyte adoption. This technology, which builds on over six years of research at leading institutions, enables batteries to store more energy, charge faster, and deliver fundamentally improved safety. Qkera’s “drop-in” product is compatible with existing battery manufacturing, providing a direct path to mass production.
Strengthening the European battery supply chain and driving technological leadership
Qkera’s innovation directly addresses Europe’s strategic need for high-energy-density, safe, and affordable batteries, critical for the rapid electrification of mobility and the transition to renewable energy systems. The company is already collaborating with major OEMs and battery manufacturers, and is establishing the groundwork for a pilot line in 2026, with a strong patent portfolio underpinning its technology.
Christian Bauer, CEO DACH of InnoEnergy
“We are delighted to be working with Qkera on the next generation of solid-state batteries,” says Christian Bauer, CEO DACH at InnoEnergy. “The electrolyte component developed by Qkera has the potential to help this key technology achieve a breakthrough in a rapidly growing market. With higher energy density, shorter charging times, and a flexible form factor, it offers decisive advantages for applications ranging from electric cars to smartphones. We are impressed not only by the technology, but also by Qkera’s excellent team. As a new investor, we will leverage our entire ecosystem of industry partners and over 30 energy storage start-ups to actively support Qkera in its move into the mass market.”
Dr. Andreas Weis, Managing Director of Qkera
“Within our first year of incorporation, we have demonstrated a scalable and affordable solution to one of the battery industry’s greatest challenges,” says Dr. Andreas Weis, Managing Director of Qkera. “With InnoEnergy’s support and unrivaled network, we are poised to scale up our process, finalize key development agreements, and advance the commercialization of next-generation battery technology. We see enormous potential in collaborating with established companies to boost European technological leadership.”
Prof. Jennifer Rupp, Co-founder of Qkera and Chief Strategy Officer
“We are especially pleased to have InnoEnergy on board,” says Prof. Jennifer Rupp, Qkera’s co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer. “With their extensive portfolio of energy start-ups, strong network, and leadership in the European Battery Alliance, we could not have asked for a better partner to help us scale our technology.”
