Core Insights - BHP has selected 10 early-stage exploration and technology companies for the 2026 BHP Xplor program, marking the largest cohort since the program's inception [1] - The 2026 cohort emphasizes a connected approach to early-stage exploration, integrating geological insight, data, and emerging technologies [2] - The program aims to enhance understanding of mineral systems in remote and complex environments through interdisciplinary collaboration [3] Exploration Companies - FrontierX (Canada) focuses on uranium exploration and is undertaking a preliminary project to test geological concepts [5] - Litchfield Minerals (Australia) is advancing copper, zinc, lead, silver, and gold opportunities, particularly in the Oonagalabi project [6] - Orion Minerals (South Africa) is applying modern data analytics to identify new discovery opportunities in its copper and zinc asset portfolio [7] - Otrera Resources (South America) is focused on sediment-hosted copper systems, leveraging regional experience and modern geochemical approaches [8] - PT GeoFix (Indonesia) is a geoscience consultancy applying proprietary tools to test new copper-gold exploration concepts [9] - Utah Geological Survey (USA) is leading a regional mineral systems analysis to improve understanding of mineral potential in the eastern Great Basin [10] Technology Companies - RadiXplore (Australia) uses AI to analyze historical exploration records and modern data for copper exploration [11] - Mineural (Canada) employs AI to help exploration teams identify and prioritize mineral targets more efficiently [12] - VectOres Science (USA) develops non-invasive tools to support mineral exploration, focusing on real-time data for early identification of mineral systems [13] - Discovery Genomics (Canada) is advancing DNA sequencing as a tool for mineral exploration, testing microbial DNA signatures to identify buried mineral systems [14]