Vancouver-based Wheaton Precious Metals has launched the third annual Future of Mining Challenge, calling on cleantech innovators around the world to propose new ways to optimize mining while reducing land impacts.
For the 2026/2027 challenge, Wheaton will award USD $1 million to a cleantech venture developing technology that strengthens orebody knowledge or improves extraction methods.
“Mining resources underpin nearly every sector, and as global demand grows, the need to produce them responsibly has never been greater,” said Haytham Hodaly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wheaton. “We believe innovation is key to improving efficiency, enhancing performance, and reducing environmental impacts.”
The challenge is focused on advancing solutions that can help mining companies improve performance while reducing their environmental footprint. Wheaton said the program is designed to support bold, early-stage technologies capable of moving the mining industry forward.
“It is remarkable to see how far mining has advanced, driven by the ingenuity of entrepreneurial minds committed to progressing the industry forward,” said Patrick Drouin, Chief Sustainability Officer of Wheaton. “By backing bold, early-stage technologies, we hope to accelerate the next generation of solutions that improve performance and reduce environmental impact.”
Wheaton is accepting expressions of interest until Friday, August 21, 2026. After reviewing submissions, the company will invite select ventures to submit a full application in September 2026.
An information session will be held in early July to provide guidance for applicants and answer questions about the process.
Wheaton is again collaborating with the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, working with a team that brings expertise in venture building and early-stage innovation support.
The winner of the 2026/2027 Future of Mining Challenge will be announced in March 2027 during the PDAC Convention in Toronto.
The latest challenge follows the 2025/2026 Future of Mining Challenge, which focused on sustainable water management. Cetos Water was named the winner and received USD $1 million for its technology that transforms wastewater generated by mining operations into clean, reusable water.