BHP’s new cohort-based accelerator program for critical minerals, BHP Xplor, has begun a global search for its next cohort in 2024, following the graduation of its inaugural cohort in June 2023.
The program is looking for early-stage explorers and startups focused on finding new resources of critical minerals needed for the world’s future.
BHP Xplor is designed to provide selected participants with the opportunity to accelerate their exploration concepts and the potential to establish a long-term partnership with BHP. The program offers participants funding, mentorship, coaching and connection into BHP’s network of suppliers and service providers.
BHP Xplor also gives participants an opportunity to be part of a unique community together with other like-minded explorers.
BHP Xplor Vice President, Sonia Scarselli, said that she was energised by the success of the program’s first cycle and thrilled to start the search for the next 2024 cohort.
“As we’ve seen reflected through the first cohort, BHP Xplor is designed for people who are ready to think differently and push the boundaries of traditional exploration,” Ms Scarselli said.
“We’re excited to see the new, innovative opportunities that will come forward in this application phase and looking forward to meeting the people behind them.
“We’re looking forward to reviewing future opportunities from around the world for new, and exciting exploration concepts needed to bring forward the critical minerals required to decarbonise.”
For BHP, the program offers the opportunity to help the company broaden its access to a diverse set of exploration prospects globally, including new geographies and geologic concepts to help drive its pipeline of new opportunities and shape its future growth portfolio.
BHP Chief Technical Officer, Laura Tyler, said, “Through BHP Xplor, we’re effectively transforming set models by testing opportunities at an accelerated pace, implementing new ways of thinking, and creating innovative concepts to address some of today’s biggest challenges facing early-stage minerals exploration.”
Selected companies will receive up to USD$500,000 cash payment from BHP, together with access to a network of internal and external experts to help guide development across technical, business, and operational aspects of the company.
The program will accept applications from 23 August 2023 and close on 11 October 2023.
