Wheaton’s 2025/2026 Future of Mining Challenge focuses on finding innovative, scalable technologies that support sustainable water management in mining,
including innovations related to water use reduction and efficiency; water monitoring; and tailings and wastewater management.
Proposed solutions must meet the following criteria:
- Support significant improvements in water management in mining
- Have a clear, actionable path to implementation and be scalable on a global perspective
- Are at technology readiness level (TRL) 4-9
- Be directly relevant to base or precious metals mines that are operating or in active closure. Solutions that are specific to legacy mine remediation/post closure or off-site refining and smelting will not be considered.
This year, Wheaton’s Future of Mining Challenge is collaborating with the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, working closely with a team that brings deep expertise in venture building and early-stage innovation support.
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the applicant guide/FAQ document and submit an expression of interest by end of day, Friday, August 29, 2025. Once all expressions of interest have been received and reviewed, Wheaton will invite select ventures to submit a full application in September 2025. Solutions will be assessed on the strength of the technology, market, team & implementation.
Interested in the Wheaton Future of Mining Challenge and want to submit a standout Expression of Interest? Join our application informational webinar on July 17, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. PST to learn how to strengthen your submission. Register now by completing this form.