Avalon Enters into Strategic Collaboration with Qualcomm for Mining Innovation and Technology Solutions in Canada

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 6, 2024) - Consistent with its strategy to become a leading North American vertically integrated lithium producer, Avalon Advanced Materials Inc. (TSX: AVL) (OTCQB: AVLNF) ("Avalon" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Qualcomm Technologies Inc. (the "MOU") on a strategic collaboration focused on Avalon's Thunder Bay lithium processing facility, advancing cutting-edge digital solutions that enhance operational efficiency and optimize data management.

Under the MOU, Avalon intends to leverage Qualcomm Technologies' Industrial & Edge technologies to create a robust digital infrastructure to support mining activities across Avalon's operations. The collaboration will involve developing a strategic roadmap for Internet-of-Things (IoT)- enabled solutions, with an emphasis on commercialization over the next few years.

Additionally, this collaboration will solidify the province's position as a hub for technological advancement in mining by fostering an ecosystem of Ontario-based technology small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to support the digital transition in Canada's critical minerals sector.

Scott Monteith, CEO of Avalon, commented, "Globally, the mining sector is undergoing a process of evolution in its practices and operations. By integrating Qualcomm Technologies' cutting-edge IoT and AI solutions into our Thunder Bay lithium project, we aim to set a new standard for digitalization in Canada. This partnership cultivates a stronger ecosystem of forward-thinking technology companies poised to accelerate data-driven advancements and strengthen Canada's critical minerals supply chain."

This MOU supports the broader adoption of innovation across the critical minerals sector, serving as a stepping stone toward Ontario's and Canada's shared goal of creating a modernized, technology-driven mining industry. Through this strategic collaboration, Avalon aligns with national aspirations to integrate advanced science and technology into every phase of the mineral development cycle, enhancing competitiveness, environmental performance, and operational efficiency.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with Avalon on this strategic initiative, which underscores our commitment to driving digital transformation in the mining industry," said Dev Singh, Vice President, Business Development, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "By leveraging our advanced Industrial & Edge technologies, we aim to empower Avalon's operations with sophisticated IoT solutions. This collaboration will enhance their operational efficiency, improve worker safety, and optimize data management capabilities, all while helping to achieve their sustainability goals."