Nexii

About Nexii

Nexii is a green construction technology company that designs and manufactures high-performance, sustainable building solutions. The company's origins trace back to the 1970s when founding brothers Michael and Ben Dombowsky, influenced by the energy crisis, began seeking more efficient building methods in Saskatchewan, Canada. After years of research, they developed the Nexii System, and Ben Dombowsky invented the core material, Nexiite. They later partnered with serial entrepreneur Stephen Sidwell to officially launch Nexii Building Solutions in 2019.

The company's business model centers on the manufacturing of prefabricated wall and roof panels made from its proprietary material, Nexiite. This material is a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete, containing no Portland cement or lime, which significantly reduces embodied carbon. The panels are precision-manufactured off-site in a controlled factory environment, incorporating openings for windows, doors, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems before being shipped to the construction site. This process allows for rapid on-site assembly, enabling construction timelines that can be significantly shorter than traditional methods. Nexii serves a clientele of major brands, developers, and general contractors, with completed projects for companies like Starbucks, Walmart, and Marriott.

Nexii experienced a period of rapid growth, achieving 'unicorn' status with a valuation over $1 billion in under three years. This expansion was fueled by significant fundraising and acquisitions, including the 2021 purchase of design and construction firm Omicron. However, the aggressive growth strategy led to high costs relative to revenue, and the company faced financial difficulties. In January 2024, Nexii Building Solutions filed for creditor protection, owing over $100 million. The situation culminated in a court-approved bankruptcy sale in July 2024, where the company's assets were acquired by the Texas-based firm 3 Gates, which now operates the business under the names NEXII Inc. in the U.S. and NEXIIcan in Canada. Following the acquisition, the new ownership announced an $8 million investment to retrofit its Squamish, British Columbia manufacturing plant to enhance production, signaling a strategic relaunch focused on a leaner, more focused operational vision.