Recent DFC rule changes expanded eligibility to higher-income countries such as Chile, opening a path for U.S. backing as the Trump administration pushes to curb China’s hold on critical minerals.
Aclara aims to mirror a $5 million initial arrangement it already secured with the DFC for its Brazil project.
The talks would extend U.S. support for rare-earth supply outside China and help advance a new source of critical minerals in Chile.
Can Aclara's 'green' mining overcome fierce local opposition in Chile to meet its 2028 production target?
With a 2027 defense deadline looming, how will the US bridge its rare earth supply gap until 2028?
Can a new US supply chain deliver rare earth alloys at prices competitive with established global producers?
U.S. DFC’s $5 Million Bet on Aclara: Catalyzing a Western Rare Earth Supply Chain from Brazil and Chile
Overview
In September 2025, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) announced up to $5 million in project development funding for Aclara’s Carina Project in Brazil. This crucial financial support enables Aclara to advance the project by facilitating a definitive feasibility study, which helps de-risk the project and makes it more attractive for future, larger investments. Aclara’s CEO highlighted the honor of this partnership, emphasizing that DFC’s involvement validates the company’s strategy and marks an important first step toward greater commitments as the project progresses.