Innovation Meets Opportunity in RIYADH, Saudi Arabia
Under the patronage of His Excellency Mr. Bandar bin Ibrahim AlKhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, the stage was set for a transformative global gathering. On January 8, 2026, RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, welcomed innovators from 32 nations for the first edition of the *Global Minerals Innovation Competition*, aptly titled **Future Minerals Pioneers**. This in-person bootcamp, running until January 10, marks the final stride toward unveiling the winners at the prestigious *Future Minerals Forum* on January 14.
From a pool of 1,812 applicants spanning 57 countries, 356 trailblazers earned their place, with Saudi talent representing a remarkable 68% of participants. This vibrant mix of local and international ingenuity reflects the Kingdom’s ambition to bridge global expertise with homegrown innovation. The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, alongside the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), designed the competition to challenge, inspire, and accelerate solutions that will redefine mining and mineral sustainability.
Inside the Future Minerals Pioneers Bootcamp
During his engaging tour, His Excellency Eng. Khalid bin Saleh Al-Mudaifer, Vice-Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs, immersed himself in the heart of the bootcamp’s creative energy. He reviewed compelling solution prototypes, followed by observing breakthrough project presentations and technical discussions. Workshops buzzed with ideas, while mentoring sessions became incubators for strategic thinking and practical execution.
Participants competed across three central tracks, each addressing critical industry needs. The **Smart Technologies Track** embraced innovations to enhance mineral exploration and compliance in mining complexes. Meanwhile, the **Safety and Security Track** focused on proactive measures to safeguard workers and reduce risks on-site. Finally, the **Resource Sustainability Track** addressed the crucial challenges of circular mining and improving water-use efficiency—a pivotal step toward responsible resource management.
This immersive experience was supported by prominent national and international partners, including Ma’aden and ESNAD, alongside over 16 public and private sector entities in judging and mentoring roles. The event’s collaborative spirit ensures that the solutions emerging from this bootcamp are not only visionary but also grounded in realistic and scalable applications.
Shaping a Sustainable Minerals Future
What makes this initiative extraordinary is its clear alignment with the Kingdom’s long-term vision. Over the last four years, the *Future Minerals Forum* has solidified its role as an essential global stage, attracting investments and championing ethical mineral supply chains. The 2026 bootcamp builds on that legacy by empowering innovators to tackle today’s pressing challenges while anticipating tomorrow’s needs.
With dedicated workshops, mentoring sessions, and rigorous evaluations, the bootcamp reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in shaping the narrative of sustainable mining worldwide. As the final days draw to a close, anticipation rises—not only for the announcement of winners but also for the forward-thinking solutions poised to make a tangible impact.
*The Future Minerals Forum 2026 isn’t just an event—it’s a catalyst. It’s where ideas meet action, and where RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, positions itself at the very heart of a global minerals revolution.*
For more details, visit [Future Minerals Forum](https://www.futuremineralsforum.com)
