Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, NIDLP Launch Global Innovation Competition under Future Minerals Forum

The National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), in cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, has launched the inaugural Global Minerals Innovation Competition titled "Future Minerals Pioneers."

 The competition was held under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources and Chairman of the NIDLP's Committee Bandar Alkhorayef, and the leadership of Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs Eng. Khalid Al-Mudaifer.

 According to NIDLP, this competition is a major international initiative aimed at developing practical solutions for the sustainability and advancement of the Kingdom's mining sector.

 The competition focuses on smart technologies, safety and security, and resource sustainability in mining operations and services. It seeks to inspire and empower both local and international talent to build an advanced ecosystem that will enhance the sector's long-term competitiveness.

 The competition invites students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals from around the world to participate. Teams of four to seven members, aged 18 or above and of any nationality, may register and submit innovative ideas through the official platform at https://fmp.nidlp.gov.sa/

 This initiative marks a new chapter in mining innovation. It is structured in three different stages: a qualifying round for local innovators, a global competition bringing together international participants, and a final ceremony at the fifth Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, January 2026, where winners will be announced and supporting entities, partners, and sponsors will also be recognized. Key partners include Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden), the main partner of the competition, and Saudi Mining Services Company (ESNAD), the main partner of the National Competition.

 NIDLP emphasized that this competition comes at a critical time when Saudi Arabia's mining sector is undergoing a transformative shift driven by Saudi Vision 2030. The vision identifies the sector as a strategic priority. It supports its development by stimulating investment, enabling the adoption of advanced technologies, and fostering an innovation-driven entrepreneurial environment, thereby strengthening the Kingdom's position as a global hub for minerals and natural resources.

 Through this competition, NIDLP aims to build an integrated ecosystem that empowers talent, connects ideas with opportunities, and generates real-world solutions to future challenges. The initiative reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainable growth and its ambition to strengthen the Kingdom's position as a global hub for minerals, resources, and mining innovation.