Go further with BHP Xplor
Funding, expertise and commercial support for companies ready to prove what they already believe in.
BHP Xplor is a nine-month program for exploration and mining technology companies, with US$500,000 in equity-free funding, technical access, commercial support and industry connections.
Ready to go further?
Applications open 31 August 2026
About the program
BHP Xplor backs exploration and mining technology companies testing serious ideas in geographies and mineral systems that matter.
If selected, you receive US$500,000 in equity-free funding, plus access to BHP specialists across exploration, technology, commercial strategy and communications.
The goal is to help you build the evidence, confidence and business case to move forward.
US$500,000 equity free
Funding deployed around the needs of your project.
Nine months
A structured program built around serious opportunities.
Four cohorts
A global program for exploration and mining technology companies.
31+ companies supported
A growing network of Xplor alumni.
What helps you go further
US$500,000 equity-free funding
Non-dilutive funding, deployed around the needs of your project.
Technical access
Access BHP specialists across exploration, geology, geophysics, geochemistry and technology.
Commercial capability
Build the business case, investor narrative and commercial thinking around your opportunity.
Global network
Connect with BHP teams, partners, peers and the global Xplor alumni network.
Commercial support
Shape your commercial strategy with BHP finance, communications and commercial specialists.
Xplor alumni community
Join a global network of companies working at the edge of mineral discovery.
How to apply
Every application is reviewed carefully, with clear steps from submission to selection.
Step 1 — Submit your application
Apply through the Xplor portal. Tell us about your project, your team and the opportunity you are ready to take further.
Applications opens 31 August 2026
Step 2 — Initial screening
The Xplor team reviews each submission for technical credibility, discovery potential and fit with the program.
Step 3 — Technical discussion
Shortlisted applicants join a virtual technical conversation with BHP's exploration team. Not a pitch. A genuine technical exchange.
Step 4 — Final round interviews
Final interviews are held virtually with the BHP Xplor team.
Step 5 — Selection and announcement
Successful participants are notified before the program begins.
The 2027 cohort begins with Bootcamp in early 2027.
A nine-month program built to move your opportunity further.
"It is like a mini-MBA for minerals exploration."
Mike Jones, Impact Minerals — BHP Xplor alumni
Is Xplor right for you?
BHP Xplor is commodity-agnostic and open to applicants globally. You do not need to own tenements to apply.
Strong applicants are testing a serious geological concept, show potential for BHP-scale discovery and are looking for a technical and commercial partner to help take the opportunity further.
Two active representatives are required: a business lead, such as a CEO or MD, and a senior technical expert.
Xplor is not the right fit if your project is at or beyond feasibility, or if you are seeking development capital. It is a structured program designed to help build exploration capability, commercial confidence and investor readiness.
Individuals
Researchers, academics and technical experts with a serious exploration concept.
Private companies
From sole operators to growing teams with discovery potential.
Listed companies
Apply with one project from a broader portfolio.
Applications open 31 August 2026
If you see potential others do not yet see, BHP Xplor can help you take it further.
Yes. BHP takes no equity in your company as a condition of participation.
The funding is non-dilutive and is yours to deploy against your exploration work program.
No. Xplor is a global program. We have supported companies across Australia,
Canada, South Africa, the Americas, Southeast Asia, and Europe.
No. You do not need to hold tenements. Individuals, private companies and listed companies can all apply, including companies applying with a single project from a broader portfolio.
Two active representatives are required: a business lead, such as a CEO or MD, and a senior technical expert.
Pending confirmation: allow around four hours a week across the nine-month program, plus in-person attendance at Bootcamp, Toolkit Camp, Scale Camp and Showcase.
