BHP Xplor applications open

BHP (ASX: BHP) has officially opened applications for the 2026 cohort for its accelerator program aimed at transforming the discovery of critical minerals — BHP Xplor.

Launched in 2024, the program is designed to accelerate participants’ exploration opportunities while fostering long-term connections with BHP. Ambitious teams and individuals dedicated to uncovering new sources of critical minerals essential for a sustainable future are invited to apply for the 2026 intake.

Participants benefit from up to $750,000 [US$500,000] in equity-free funding, expert mentorship and access to the company’s global network of suppliers and service providers.

BHP Group exploration officer Tim O’Connor says Xplor has quickly become a recognised pathway for early-stage explorers who want to scale faster and think more boldly.

“The program provides not only capital, but access to the knowledge, networks, and technical depth that can fundamentally change the trajectory of a company,” he said.

“As the world’s demand for critical minerals intensifies, building strong partnerships between majors and juniors will be essential. Xplor is about more than accelerating exploration projects, it’s about shaping a new way of working together to unlock the resources needed for the future.”

The 2026 cohort will join BHP Xplor’s growing alumni network, now spanning 21 companies, to continue sharing insights and learnings as they progress on their journey.

Electrum Discovery chief executive and current BHP Xplor participant Elena Clarici says being part of BHP has been invaluable.

“The program has given us access to expertise and resources that have helped sharpen our strategy and move our projects forward more quickly,” she said.

“It has also opened doors to networks and opportunities that would have been much harder to access on our own. Xplor is already making a real difference in how we grow as a company.”

Applications for the BHP Xplor 2026 cohort are open from September 8 to October 15, 2025.