BHP has selected its largest-ever cohort for the 2026 Xplor program, choosing ten early-stage exploration and technology Companies from around the world. The fourth-year initiative expands support for mineral discovery through equity-free funding, technical guidance, and structured collaboration.
BHP’s 2026 Xplor program supports early-stage exploration and technology companies worldwide. (Source: Shutterstock)
Largest Intake Since Program Launch
BHP confirmed that ten Companies will join the 2026 Xplor program. This marks the biggest intake since the initiative began four years ago.
The program focuses on accelerating early-stage mineral exploration concepts. It combines funding with technical mentorship and structured development sessions.
According to the Company’s announcement, each selected participant may receive up to US$500,000. The funding is provided on an equity-free basis.
The expanded cohort reflects growing participation from exploration and technology groups globally. Applications were assessed based on technical quality and innovation potential.
Focus on Early-Stage Exploration
The Xplor program targets Companies working on early mineral exploration concepts. These projects often operate before traditional large-scale investment becomes available.
BHP’s Group Exploration Officer Tim O’Connor addressed the program’s direction in a Company statement. He stated that exploration methods continue to evolve through new tools and datasets.
He noted that data-driven approaches are reshaping how mineral systems are tested. He also said collaboration remains central to the program’s structure.
A post shared on X by BHP confirmed the 2026 intake. The Company described it as the largest group selected under Xplor to date.
We’re thrilled to welcome the BHP Xplor 2026 cohort. 🎉
This year’s cohort brings together innovative explorers, technologists, and scientists who are pushing the boundaries of how mineral discovery is done.
Learn more 👉 https://t.co/nZX5jHMV8C#Xplor #BHP #Innovation pic.twitter.com/WzvDNGhB0N
— BHP (@bhp) February 1, 2026
Diverse Global Representation
The ten selected Companies represent multiple regions and disciplines. Participants are based in North America, South America, Australia, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Six of the selected groups focus primarily on mineral exploration. Four Companies specialize in exploration technology and scientific tools.
Exploration-focused participants include FrontierX from Canada. The Company is advancing early-stage uranium opportunities.
Litchfield Minerals from Australia is progressing copper, zinc, lead, silver, and gold projects. Its Oonagalabi project in the Northern Territory forms part of its work.
Orion Minerals in South Africa applies modern data analytics to copper and zinc targets. Otrera Resources in South America works on sediment-hosted copper systems.
PT GeoFix in Indonesia tests exploration concepts in underexplored regions. The Utah Geological Survey leads regional mineral systems research in the United States.
Technology-Driven Exploration Approaches
Four selected Companies focus on technology solutions for mineral targeting. Their work integrates advanced data processing and scientific analysis.
RadiXplore from Australia applies artificial intelligence to reinterpret historical exploration datasets. The approach seeks to identify overlooked mineralization signals.
Mineural in Canada develops machine learning tools to prioritize mineral targets. Its platform supports early-stage decision-making through computational modeling.
VectOres Science in the United States advances hydrogeochemical and isotopic exploration techniques. These tools assist in refining early targeting strategies.
Discovery Genomics in Canada explores the use of DNA sequencing methods. The Company aims to detect geochemical traces linked to concealed mineral systems.
A separate post on X referenced the inclusion of technology innovators in the cohort. The announcement noted that digital tools form part of the 2026 intake.
Structured Program Support
Selected Companies will participate in a structured program over several months. The initiative includes technical workshops, mentoring, and peer collaboration sessions.
BHP experts from exploration, technology, and commercial teams will engage directly with participants. The structure provides access to industry experience and operational insights.
The equity-free funding supports field programs, data analysis, and concept validation. Companies retain ownership of their intellectual property.
Participants also gain exposure to potential collaboration pathways within BHP’s broader exploration network. The Company maintains that the program aims to test early ideas efficiently.
Evolution of the Xplor Initiative
The Xplor program entered its fourth year with the 2026 intake. Since its launch, it has expanded its geographic and technical scope.
Earlier cohorts included smaller groups of participants. The 2026 selection represents the program’s largest expansion to date.
BHP stated that exploration continues to require new datasets and integrated approaches. The Company referenced shifting methods in early-stage mineral targeting.
Company statements indicated that multidisciplinary collaboration is becoming more common. Traditional geology now works alongside data science and laboratory research.
Also Read: Resolution Minerals Ltd Quarterly Activities Report December 2025 | Golden Gate Gold Discovery
Position Within Global Mineral Exploration
The selected projects cover commodities including uranium, copper, zinc, lead, silver, and gold. Several projects operate in regions with limited historical exploration.
Projects in the 2026 Xplor cohort cover commodities including copper, zinc, uranium, and gold. (Source: smenet)
Technology-focused participants introduce analytical tools that complement field-based exploration. Their work supports early targeting before drilling campaigns begin.
BHP’s public communications described the 2026 intake as part of ongoing exploration investment. The Company noted that innovation remains central to its exploration strategy.
Through the Xplor framework, BHP continues to engage early-stage explorers and technology developers. The 2026 cohort begins its program cycle following the recent announcement.
FAQs
- What is the BHP Xplor program?
The BHP Xplor program is an accelerator initiative that supports early-stage mineral exploration and technology companies. It provides equity-free funding, technical mentorship, and structured development opportunities to selected participants. - How much funding does BHP provide under the Xplor program?
Selected companies can receive up to US$500,000 in equity-free funding. The financial support is designed to help advance early-stage exploration concepts and technology development. - How many companies were selected for the 2026 BHP Xplor program?
BHP selected ten companies for the 2026 intake. This is the largest cohort since the program was launched four years ago. - What types of companies are eligible for the BHP Xplor program?
The program targets early-stage mineral exploration companies and technology innovators. Eligible participants typically focus on mineral discovery, geoscience research, or advanced exploration tools. - Which commodities are covered in the 2026 Xplor cohort?
The selected companies are working on commodities including uranium, copper, zinc, lead, silver, and gold. Some participants also focus on technology solutions supporting mineral targeting. - Does BHP take equity in Xplor program participants?
No. The funding provided through the Xplor program is equity-free. Participating companies retain ownership of their projects and intellectual property. - When was the BHP Xplor program launched?
The program began four years ago. The 2026 intake represents its fourth year of operation and the largest cohort to date.
