MineWatch raises US$900 thousand to advance its IoT connectivity technology in mining
MineWatch raises US$900 thousand in a round led by Alza Mining Tech to expand its IoT technology in underground mining in Peru and Mexico.
The Chilean startup MineWatch raised US$900 thousand in a round led by Alza Mining Tech to accelerate the rollout of its IoT connectivity technology in underground mining operations. The company develops a wireless network that enables equipment and workers to be monitored in real time, without relying on cabling or traditional Wi-Fi networks inside tunnels.
Founded in 2022 by José Reyes, MineWatch is already generating revenue from customers in Chile and recently began operations at Cerro Lindo, its first mine in Peru.
A wireless network for underground mining
MineWatch’s technology combines proprietary hardware with a monitoring platform that runs on a mesh network of wireless nodes.
Each device is battery-powered, communicates via radio frequency and has a range of up to 250 meters. This infrastructure can cover kilometers of tunnels without the need to install additional infrastructure.
On this network, the platform can identify workers’ locations and the operating status of machinery, providing real-time visibility for operations that currently rely on more expensive systems that are more vulnerable to failures.
From Chile to Peru: MineWatch’s next step
The startup already operates in Chile and works with contractors at El Teniente. Its expansion to Cerro Lindo marks its first operation in Peru.
Since beginning operations in the country, MineWatch has been in talks with new mining companies in Peru as it continues to build its regional presence.
The company currently has 18 employees and plans to use the new investment to strengthen its growth capacity.
US$900 thousand to strengthen the team and develop new features
The US$900 thousand round led by Alza Mining Tech will be allocated to various areas of MineWatch’s development.
The investment’s main goals include strengthening the sales team, developing new features and preparing for the company’s regional expansion.
With these resources, the startup aims to bring its connectivity and monitoring technology to more underground mining operations.
Mexico is on the horizon for 2027
In addition to consolidating its presence in Chile and making progress in Peru, MineWatch plans to enter Mexico in 2027.
The company aims to expand its connectivity and monitoring technology to new underground operations across the region, while continuing to explore opportunities with mining companies in the markets where it plans to grow.
