


Future Minerals Pioneers
Be among the pioneers of the future of minerals and take part in the global innovation competition to build a stronger and more sustainable economy.
Sustainable Mining Starts with Bold Ideas…
Registration closes in October 20, 2025
Future Minerals Pioneers
The National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) is organizing the first edition of the Global Minerals Innovation Competition under the theme of "Future Minerals Pioneers." Held under the umbrella of the Future Minerals Forum (FMF), the competition is set to become a leading gate that opens new horizons for creative minds from around the world. It aims to spark innovative ideas to address challenges across the mining and minerals value chain, while celebrating innovators and empowering them to contribute to maximizing the sector's value. The Global Innovation in Minerals Competition represents one of the key initiatives designed to foster innovation as part of efforts to enable the mining sector and strengthen its role in achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. By attracting both national and international talent, the competition seeks to inspire innovative visions and effective technological solutions that address real challenges within the mining sector's value chain.

Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources
Mr. Bandar bin Ibrahim Alkhorayef

Under the leadership of His Excellency the Vice Minister of Industry for Mining Affairs
Eng. Khalid bin Saleh Al-Mudaifer




Goals
Enhancing Awareness of the Importance of the Mining Sector
Showcasing mining as a key driver of sustainable growth and a vital contributor to Vision 2030 and Saudi Arabia's economy.
Accelerating the Pace of Technological Innovation
Encouraging the exploration and development of innovative solutions and advanced technologies that reshape mining operations and services.
Empowering Promising Talent and Developing Human Capabilities
Nurturing the innovative skills of future leaders and creating an inspiring environment for mining innovation.
Fostering International Cooperation and Knowledge Exchange
Building global partnerships and facilitating collaboration to share expertise, best practices, and innovations that advance the mining sector worldwide.
Enhancing Awareness of the Importance of the Mining Sector
Accelerating the Pace of Technological Innovation
Empowering Promising Talent and Developing Human Capabilities
Fostering International Cooperation and Knowledge Exchange

Target Audience

Tracks
Choose the track that fuels your passion
Smart Technologies in Mining Operations Track
This track focuses on developing innovative technology solutions that accelerate and enhance mineral exploration, while enabling advanced compliance and monitoring services across mining operations. These solutions should aim to reduce reliance on human intervention, speed up decision-making, and enhance operational efficiency in overall mining operations and stages.
Safety and Security in Mining Operations Track
The mining sector faces increasing challenges related to worker safety in harsh and complex environments, with risks ranging from ground collapses and falling rocks to equipment failures, gas exposure, dust-related illnesses, and extreme weather. Ensuring safer and more reliable workplaces is therefore a top priority. This track focuses on innovative solutions that enhance site safety by anticipating risks, reducing exposure to hazardous conditions, and ensuring mining operations meet the highest standards of safety and reliability.
Resource Sustainability in Mining Operations Track
This track focuses on developing innovative solutions that enhance water efficiency across different phases of mining, whether by improving operational processes or adopting alternative sources. It also opens the door for participants to design new solutions for reusing metals and minerals from mining and electronic waste.

Future Minerals Pioneers Journey
Competition Launch and Registration Opens
September 8
Virtual Awareness Sessions
September 15 – October 4
Registration Closes
October 20
Qualified Teams Announcement
October 30
Virtual Workshops and Mentoring Sessions
Throughout November-December
In-Person Bootcamp
(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
January 8-10, 2026
Winners Announcement at Future Minerals Forum
January 13-15, 2026
Competition Launch and Registration Opens
September 8
Virtual Awareness Sessions
September 15 – October 4
Registration Closes
October 20
Qualified Teams Announcement
October 30
Virtual Workshops and Mentoring Sessions
Throughout November-December
In-Person Bootcamp
(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
January 8-10, 2026
Winners Announcement at Future Minerals Forum
January 13-15, 2026

Future Minerals Pioneers Prizes
Total prizes amount

Partnerships
Main Partner

Main Partner for the National Competition

Enablement Partners














Knowledge Partners


















Sustainability Partners












National Competition Partners









