PERTH (miningweekly.com) – Diversified miner BHP has launched the second round of its BHP Xplor initiative, a six-month, cohort-based accelerator programme in the pursuit of unlocking critical minerals.

After successfully completing its first year with the graduation of the inaugural cohort in June 2023, BHP Xplor is now looking for early-stage explorers and startups focused on finding new resources of critical minerals needed for the world’s future. 

“We are energised by the success of the programme’s first cycle and thrilled to start our 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. 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,” said BHP Xplor VP Sonia Scarselli.

“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.”

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 programme offers participants funding, mentorship and coaching, and connection into BHP’s network of suppliers and service providers.

For BHP, the programme offers the opportunity to 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.

Selected companies will receive an up to $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 programme will accept applications from August 23 and close on October 11.