Registration open
Challenge: Void Detection
POC planned for 2026
Mature, ready-to-use solutions
Innovation open to accelerate solutions that mining
Innovation open to accelerate solutions that mining
Scroll down to learn more
Registration open
Challenge: Void Detection
POC planned for 2026
Mature, ready-to-use solutions
THE PROGRAM
IDENTIFY AND VALIDATE EXISTING SOLUTIONS
IDENTIFY AND VALIDATE EXISTING SOLUTIONS
O PROGRAMA
Challenge
01
Real-world opportunities and problems in mining that require applicable solutions.
Challenge
01
Real-world opportunities and problems in mining that require applicable solutions.
Solution
02
Technologies already developed and ready for application in the operational environment.
Solution
02
Technologies already developed and ready for application in the operational environment.
Test
03
Practical validation of solutions in the field, evaluating performance and adherence to the context.
Test
03
Practical validation of solutions in the field, evaluating performance and adherence to the context.
Test
03
Practical validation of solutions in the field, evaluating performance and adherence to the context.
Implementation
04
Possible application of the solution in the operation, according to test results and business decision (adoption is not guaranteed).
Implementation
04
Possible application of the solution in the operation, according to test results and business decision (adoption is not guaranteed).
Unlike accelerator programs or new technology development programs, this initiative seeks companies that already have mature solutions ready for application , reducing the time between identifying an opportunity and testing it in the field.
Unlike accelerator programs or new technology development programs, this initiative seeks companies that already have mature solutions ready for application, reducing the time between identifying an opportunity and testing it in the field.
Unlike accelerator programs or new technology development programs, this initiative seeks companies that already have mature solutions ready for application, reducing the time between identifying an opportunity and testing it in the field.
challenge
2026 cHALLENGE
Void Detection
Detecting and monitoring voids in underground operations is fundamental to supporting decision-making and strengthening operational safety.
In this challenge, we seek solutions capable of identifying, mapping, or monitoring voids more efficiently, accurately, and reliably. Technologies with a level of maturity compatible with conducting a proof of concept as early as 2026 will be prioritized.
What we are looking for
Ready-to-use solutions
Technologies that have been validated or are already being used in the field
Companies with the capacity to execute a proof of concept in a short timeframe.
Partners with proven experience in similar
CHALLENGE
2026 CHALLENGE
Void Detection
Detecting and monitoring voids in underground operations is fundamental to supporting decision-making and strengthening operational safety.
In this challenge, we seek solutions capable of identifying, mapping, or monitoring voids more efficiently, accurately, and reliably. Technologies with a level of maturity compatible with conducting a proof of concept as early as 2026 will be prioritized.
What we are looking for
Ready-to-use solutions
Technologies that have been validated or are already being used in the field
Companies with the capacity to execute a proof of concept in a short timeframe.
Partners with proven experience in similar
O que buscamos
Soluções prontas para aplicação;
Tecnologias validadas ou já utilizadas em campo;
Empresas com capacidade de executar uma prova de conceito em curto prazo;
Parceiros com experiência comprovada em desafios semelhantes;
CHALLENGE
2026 CHALLENGE
desafio
Void Detection
Detecting and monitoring voids in underground operations is fundamental to supporting decision-making and strengthening operational safety.
In this challenge, we seek solutions capable of identifying, mapping, or monitoring voids more efficiently, accurately, and reliably. Technologies with a level of maturity compatible with conducting a proof of concept as early as 2026 will be prioritized.
What we are looking for
Ready-to-use solutions.
Technologies that have been validated or are already being used in the field.
Companies with the capacity to execute a proof of concept in a short timeframe.
Partners with proven experience in similar.
WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
Companies, technology providers, and late-stage startups that have solutions already developed and ready for validation.
Companies, technology providers, and late-stage startups that have solutions already developed and ready for validation.
Companies, technology providers, and late-stage startups that have solutions already developed and ready for validation.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR ORGANIZATIONS WITH:
✔ Functional and well-developed solution
✔ Application cases, pilot programs, or clients
✔ Structured technical team
✔ Ability to provide support during the proof of concept phase
✔ Available for implementation as early as 2026
THIS PROGRAM IS NOT INTENDED FOR:
✖ Ideas in the conceptual phase
✖ Technologies in early stages of development
✖ Projects that require significant development before validation
✖ Solutions lacking minimal evidence of application or functionality
WE ARE LOOKING FOR ORGANIZATIONS WITH:
✔ Functional and well-developed solution
✔ Application cases, pilot programs, or clients
✔ Structured technical team
✔ Ability to provide support during the proof of concept phase
✔ Available for implementation as early as 2026
THIS PROGRAM IS NOT INTENDED FOR:
✖ Ideas in the conceptual phase
✖ Technologies in early stages of development
✖ Projects that require significant development before validation
✖ Solutions lacking minimal evidence of application or functionality
Benefits
Benefits for participants
Benefits for participants
benefícios
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
Benefits
Benefits for participants
benefícios
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
TIMELINE
Important dates in our journey
Important dates in our journey
Important dates in our journey
cronograma
07/13/2026
Registrations
Registration is through the program's official platform.
08/23/2026
07/13/2026
Registrations
Registration is through the program's official platform.
08/23/2026
08/24/2026
Assessment
Technical analysis and evaluation of adherence to the challenge, with communication of those selected for the next phase (Pitch).
09/04/2026
08/24/2026
Assessment
Technical analysis and evaluation of adherence to the challenge, with communication of those selected for the next phase (Pitch).
09/04/2026
09/05/2026
Solution Pitch
Presentation of the company and the proposed solution.
09/18/2026
09/05/2026
Solution Pitch
Presentation of the company and the proposed solution.
09/18/2026
09/19/2026
Immersion
Structuring the POC, defining the scope, success indicators, timeline, and contracting.
10/18/2026
09/19/2026
Immersion
Structuring the POC, defining the scope, success indicators, timeline, and contracting.
10/18/2026
10/19/2026
POC Execution
Validation of the solution in an operational environment.
12/04/2026
10/19/2026
POC Execution
Validation of the solution in an operational environment.
12/04/2026
12/05/2026
Evaluation of Results
Analysis of the results and definition of the next steps.
12/18/2026
12/05/2026
Evaluation of Results
Analysis of the results and definition of the next steps.
12/18/2026
WHO WE ARE
Innovation is part of our journey
At Nexa, innovation is a strategic pillar for building an increasingly safe, efficient, and sustainable mining industry. We believe in collaboration as a way to accelerate the transformation of the sector and generate value for the business.
Our open innovation ecosystem brings together different initiatives to connect partners with Nexa's challenges. The Mining Lab Plug & Play is aimed at companies and startups with mature solutions, ready to be tested and scaled.
O Escalab é um centro de soluções em deep techs da UFMG, em parceria com o CIT-SENAI, especializado em transformar tecnologias em soluções de alto impacto para a indústria. Atua na curadoria, desenvolvimento, validação e escalonamento de tecnologias, conectando pesquisa, mercado e inovação para acelerar a implementação de soluções frente a desafios tecnológicos.
São 7 anos desenvolvendo +150 tecnologias focadas em mineração, metalurgia e indústria química.
O Hub de Inovação Mineradora do Peru é uma associação criada por iniciativa de empresas do setor de mineração para impulsionar a inovação por meio da colaboração.
A iniciativa promove projetos de codesenvolvimento e conecta diferentes atores do ecossistema para desenvolver soluções que respondam aos desafios estratégicos da mineração.
Escalab is a deep tech solutions center at UFMG, in partnership with CIT-SENAI, specializing in transforming technologies into high-impact solutions for industry. It works in the curation, development, validation, and scaling of technologies , connecting research, market, and innovation to accelerate the implementation of solutions to technological challenges.
For 7 years we have been developing over 150 technologies focused on the mining, metallurgy, and chemical industries.
The Peruvian Mining Innovation Hub is an association created by mining companies to promote innovation through collaboration.
The initiative promotes co-development projects and connects different actors in the ecosystem to develop solutions that address the strategic challenges of mining.
who we are
Innovation is part of our journey
At Nexa, innovation is a strategic pillar for building an increasingly safe, efficient, and sustainable mining industry. We believe in collaboration as a way to accelerate the transformation of the sector and generate value for the business.
Our open innovation ecosystem brings together different initiatives to connect partners with Nexa's challenges. The Mining Lab Plug & Play is aimed at companies and startups with mature solutions, ready to be tested and scaled.
Escalab is a deep tech solutions center at UFMG, in partnership with CIT-SENAI, specializing in transforming technologies into high-impact solutions for industry. It works in the curation, development, validation, and scaling of technologies , connecting research, market, and innovation to accelerate the implementation of solutions to technological challenges.
For 7 years we have been developing over 150 technologies focused on the mining, metallurgy, and chemical industries.
The Peruvian Mining Innovation Hub is an association created by mining companies to promote innovation through collaboration.
The initiative promotes co-development projects and connects different actors in the ecosystem to develop solutions that address the strategic challenges of mining.
WHO WE ARE
Innovation is part of our journey
At Nexa, innovation is a strategic pillar for building an increasingly safe, efficient, and sustainable mining industry. We believe in collaboration as a way to accelerate the transformation of the sector and generate value for the business.
Our open innovation ecosystem brings together different initiatives to connect partners with Nexa's challenges. The Mining Lab Plug & Play is aimed at companies and startups with mature solutions, ready to be tested and scaled.
Escalab is a deep tech solutions center at UFMG, in partnership with CIT-SENAI, specializing in transforming technologies into high-impact solutions for industry. It works in the curation, development, validation, and scaling of technologies, connecting research, market, and innovation to accelerate the implementation of solutions to technological challenges.
For 7 years we have been developing over 150 technologies focused on the mining, metallurgy, and chemical industries.
The Peruvian Mining Innovation Hub is an association created by mining companies to promote innovation through collaboration. The initiative promotes co-development projects and connects different actors in the ecosystem to develop solutions that address the strategic challenges of mining.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Who can participate?
Can I apply with an idea or technology under development?
Does my solution need to have been applied beforehand?
What challenges will be addressed in the program?
How does the selection process work?
When will the proof of concept be carried out?
Where will the proof of concept be carried out?
Is there a possibility of continuity after the POC?
Who is responsible for the costs of the proof of concept?
Is the information submitted confidential?
Your solution can contribute to the future of mining!
Your solution can contribute to the future of mining!
Registration open
Challenge: Void Detection
POC planned for 2026
Mature, ready-to-use solutions
Innovation open to accelerate solutions that mining
Innovation open to accelerate solutions that mining
Scroll down to learn more
Registration open
Challenge: Void Detection
POC planned for 2026
Mature, ready-to-use solutions
THE PROGRAM
IDENTIFY AND VALIDATE EXISTING SOLUTIONS
IDENTIFY AND VALIDATE EXISTING SOLUTIONS
O PROGRAMA
Challenge
01
Real-world opportunities and problems in mining that require applicable solutions.
Challenge
01
Real-world opportunities and problems in mining that require applicable solutions.
Solution
02
Technologies already developed and ready for application in the operational environment.
Solution
02
Technologies already developed and ready for application in the operational environment.
Test
03
Practical validation of solutions in the field, evaluating performance and adherence to the context.
Test
03
Practical validation of solutions in the field, evaluating performance and adherence to the context.
Test
03
Practical validation of solutions in the field, evaluating performance and adherence to the context.
Implementation
04
Possible application of the solution in the operation, according to test results and business decision (adoption is not guaranteed).
Implementation
04
Possible application of the solution in the operation, according to test results and business decision (adoption is not guaranteed).
Unlike accelerator programs or new technology development programs, this initiative seeks companies that already have mature solutions ready for application , reducing the time between identifying an opportunity and testing it in the field.
Unlike accelerator programs or new technology development programs, this initiative seeks companies that already have mature solutions ready for application, reducing the time between identifying an opportunity and testing it in the field.
Unlike accelerator programs or new technology development programs, this initiative seeks companies that already have mature solutions ready for application, reducing the time between identifying an opportunity and testing it in the field.
challenge
2026 cHALLENGE
Void Detection
Detecting and monitoring voids in underground operations is fundamental to supporting decision-making and strengthening operational safety.
In this challenge, we seek solutions capable of identifying, mapping, or monitoring voids more efficiently, accurately, and reliably. Technologies with a level of maturity compatible with conducting a proof of concept as early as 2026 will be prioritized.
What we are looking for
Ready-to-use solutions
Technologies that have been validated or are already being used in the field
Companies with the capacity to execute a proof of concept in a short timeframe.
Partners with proven experience in similar
CHALLENGE
2026 CHALLENGE
Void Detection
Detecting and monitoring voids in underground operations is fundamental to supporting decision-making and strengthening operational safety.
In this challenge, we seek solutions capable of identifying, mapping, or monitoring voids more efficiently, accurately, and reliably. Technologies with a level of maturity compatible with conducting a proof of concept as early as 2026 will be prioritized.
What we are looking for
Ready-to-use solutions
Technologies that have been validated or are already being used in the field
Companies with the capacity to execute a proof of concept in a short timeframe.
Partners with proven experience in similar
O que buscamos
Soluções prontas para aplicação;
Tecnologias validadas ou já utilizadas em campo;
Empresas com capacidade de executar uma prova de conceito em curto prazo;
Parceiros com experiência comprovada em desafios semelhantes;
CHALLENGE
2026 CHALLENGE
desafio
Void Detection
Detecting and monitoring voids in underground operations is fundamental to supporting decision-making and strengthening operational safety.
In this challenge, we seek solutions capable of identifying, mapping, or monitoring voids more efficiently, accurately, and reliably. Technologies with a level of maturity compatible with conducting a proof of concept as early as 2026 will be prioritized.
What we are looking for
Ready-to-use solutions.
Technologies that have been validated or are already being used in the field.
Companies with the capacity to execute a proof of concept in a short timeframe.
Partners with proven experience in similar.
WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
Companies, technology providers, and late-stage startups that have solutions already developed and ready for validation.
Companies, technology providers, and late-stage startups that have solutions already developed and ready for validation.
Companies, technology providers, and late-stage startups that have solutions already developed and ready for validation.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR ORGANIZATIONS WITH:
✔ Functional and well-developed solution
✔ Application cases, pilot programs, or clients
✔ Structured technical team
✔ Ability to provide support during the proof of concept phase
✔ Available for implementation as early as 2026
THIS PROGRAM IS NOT INTENDED FOR:
✖ Ideas in the conceptual phase
✖ Technologies in early stages of development
✖ Projects that require significant development before validation
✖ Solutions lacking minimal evidence of application or functionality
WE ARE LOOKING FOR ORGANIZATIONS WITH:
✔ Functional and well-developed solution
✔ Application cases, pilot programs, or clients
✔ Structured technical team
✔ Ability to provide support during the proof of concept phase
✔ Available for implementation as early as 2026
THIS PROGRAM IS NOT INTENDED FOR:
✖ Ideas in the conceptual phase
✖ Technologies in early stages of development
✖ Projects that require significant development before validation
✖ Solutions lacking minimal evidence of application or functionality
Benefits
Benefits for participants
Benefits for participants
benefícios
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
Benefits
Benefits for participants
benefícios
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Connection with mining experts
Interact directly with professionals involved in the challenge.
Validation in a real operational environment
Test your technology in a Nexa operation and generate concrete evidence of performance.
Potential for new opportunities
Demonstrate the value of your solution in a real-world business context.
Visibility in the ecosystem
Participate in an initiative connected to the challenges and opportunities of mining.
Agile and results-oriented process
A structured journey to accelerate the evaluation and validation of technologies.
TIMELINE
Important dates in our journey
Important dates in our journey
Important dates in our journey
cronograma
07/13/2026
Registrations
Registration is through the program's official platform.
08/23/2026
07/13/2026
Registrations
Registration is through the program's official platform.
08/23/2026
08/24/2026
Assessment
Technical analysis and evaluation of adherence to the challenge, with communication of those selected for the next phase (Pitch).
09/04/2026
08/24/2026
Assessment
Technical analysis and evaluation of adherence to the challenge, with communication of those selected for the next phase (Pitch).
09/04/2026
09/05/2026
Solution Pitch
Presentation of the company and the proposed solution.
09/18/2026
09/05/2026
Solution Pitch
Presentation of the company and the proposed solution.
09/18/2026
09/19/2026
Immersion
Structuring the POC, defining the scope, success indicators, timeline, and contracting.
10/18/2026
09/19/2026
Immersion
Structuring the POC, defining the scope, success indicators, timeline, and contracting.
10/18/2026
10/19/2026
POC Execution
Validation of the solution in an operational environment.
12/04/2026
10/19/2026
POC Execution
Validation of the solution in an operational environment.
12/04/2026
12/05/2026
Evaluation of Results
Analysis of the results and definition of the next steps.
12/18/2026
12/05/2026
Evaluation of Results
Analysis of the results and definition of the next steps.
12/18/2026
WHO WE ARE
Innovation is part of our journey
At Nexa, innovation is a strategic pillar for building an increasingly safe, efficient, and sustainable mining industry. We believe in collaboration as a way to accelerate the transformation of the sector and generate value for the business.
Our open innovation ecosystem brings together different initiatives to connect partners with Nexa's challenges. The Mining Lab Plug & Play is aimed at companies and startups with mature solutions, ready to be tested and scaled.
O Escalab é um centro de soluções em deep techs da UFMG, em parceria com o CIT-SENAI, especializado em transformar tecnologias em soluções de alto impacto para a indústria. Atua na curadoria, desenvolvimento, validação e escalonamento de tecnologias, conectando pesquisa, mercado e inovação para acelerar a implementação de soluções frente a desafios tecnológicos.
São 7 anos desenvolvendo +150 tecnologias focadas em mineração, metalurgia e indústria química.
O Hub de Inovação Mineradora do Peru é uma associação criada por iniciativa de empresas do setor de mineração para impulsionar a inovação por meio da colaboração.
A iniciativa promove projetos de codesenvolvimento e conecta diferentes atores do ecossistema para desenvolver soluções que respondam aos desafios estratégicos da mineração.
Escalab is a deep tech solutions center at UFMG, in partnership with CIT-SENAI, specializing in transforming technologies into high-impact solutions for industry. It works in the curation, development, validation, and scaling of technologies , connecting research, market, and innovation to accelerate the implementation of solutions to technological challenges.
For 7 years we have been developing over 150 technologies focused on the mining, metallurgy, and chemical industries.
The Peruvian Mining Innovation Hub is an association created by mining companies to promote innovation through collaboration.
The initiative promotes co-development projects and connects different actors in the ecosystem to develop solutions that address the strategic challenges of mining.
who we are
Innovation is part of our journey
At Nexa, innovation is a strategic pillar for building an increasingly safe, efficient, and sustainable mining industry. We believe in collaboration as a way to accelerate the transformation of the sector and generate value for the business.
Our open innovation ecosystem brings together different initiatives to connect partners with Nexa's challenges. The Mining Lab Plug & Play is aimed at companies and startups with mature solutions, ready to be tested and scaled.
Escalab is a deep tech solutions center at UFMG, in partnership with CIT-SENAI, specializing in transforming technologies into high-impact solutions for industry. It works in the curation, development, validation, and scaling of technologies , connecting research, market, and innovation to accelerate the implementation of solutions to technological challenges.
For 7 years we have been developing over 150 technologies focused on the mining, metallurgy, and chemical industries.
The Peruvian Mining Innovation Hub is an association created by mining companies to promote innovation through collaboration.
The initiative promotes co-development projects and connects different actors in the ecosystem to develop solutions that address the strategic challenges of mining.
WHO WE ARE
Innovation is part of our journey
At Nexa, innovation is a strategic pillar for building an increasingly safe, efficient, and sustainable mining industry. We believe in collaboration as a way to accelerate the transformation of the sector and generate value for the business.
Our open innovation ecosystem brings together different initiatives to connect partners with Nexa's challenges. The Mining Lab Plug & Play is aimed at companies and startups with mature solutions, ready to be tested and scaled.
Escalab is a deep tech solutions center at UFMG, in partnership with CIT-SENAI, specializing in transforming technologies into high-impact solutions for industry. It works in the curation, development, validation, and scaling of technologies, connecting research, market, and innovation to accelerate the implementation of solutions to technological challenges.
For 7 years we have been developing over 150 technologies focused on the mining, metallurgy, and chemical industries.
The Peruvian Mining Innovation Hub is an association created by mining companies to promote innovation through collaboration. The initiative promotes co-development projects and connects different actors in the ecosystem to develop solutions that address the strategic challenges of mining.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Who can participate?
Can I apply with an idea or technology under development?
Does my solution need to have been applied beforehand?
What challenges will be addressed in the program?
How does the selection process work?
When will the proof of concept be carried out?
Where will the proof of concept be carried out?
Is there a possibility of continuity after the POC?
Who is responsible for the costs of the proof of concept?
Is the information submitted confidential?