Championing Indigenous Innovation and Enterprise

A vibrant centre of capability, creativity and collaboration, the First Nations Innovation Zone is a dedicated feature of the GRX27 exhibition, showcasing Indigenous-led innovation across the resources value chain.

The Hub brings together Indigenous entrepreneurs, industry leaders and technology pioneers in one highly visible space, creating new pathways for connection, commercial opportunity and long-term impact.

With more than half of Australia’s critical mineral projects located on or near Indigenous lands, Indigenous innovation is central to the future of the sector. The Hub reflects this reality — positioning Indigenous enterprise as a key contributor to mining’s next chapter.

Global Resources Innovation Expo

 

Global Resources Innovation Expo

A Platform for Innovation, Capability and Connection 

The First Nations Innovation Zone is designed to spotlight real capability and real opportunity. 

It is a place where Indigenous-led businesses showcase advanced solutions, specialist services and emerging technologies — and where meaningful conversations turn into lasting partnerships. 

Through curated engagement and strong industry integration, the Hub supports: 

  • Visibility for Indigenous-led innovation 
  • Commercial connection and collaboration 
  • Knowledge sharing and capability development 
  • Long-term relationship building 
  • Sustainable economic participation 

First Nations Innovation Zone Package

GRX brings together mining companies, METS leaders, technology providers, researchers, investors and decision-makers from across the resources sector.

As part of the First Nations Zone, you’ll have a dedicated space to showcase your technology, demonstrate what it can do and have the conversations that can help move it forward.

Cost to participate: $4,000 + GST

Inclusions:

  • Dedicated innovation pod in the centrally located First Nations Innovation Zone
  • Two full GRX27 conference delegate pass
  • Two ticket to the GRX Industry Awards Dinner
  • Exposure to mining companies, METS organisations, investors, researchers and industry decision-makers
  • Company profile on the GRX27 website and First Nations Innovation Zone webpage
  • Inclusion in marketing and promotional campaigns
  • Networking opportunities with potential customers, partners and collaborators

Eligibility Criteria

First Nations Innovation Zone applicants must meet the below criteria:

  • Indigenous-led: The business must be at least 51% Indigenous-owned, or clearly demonstrate Indigenous leadership in its governance and operations. 
  • Deployment-ready innovation: The product, service or solution being showcased must be at or beyond pilot stage and ready for deployment within the mining or METS sectors. We are seeking innovations that are commercially viable, not concepts or early-stage research. 
  • Solving a real mining or METS challenge: The innovation must address a genuine operational challenge faced by mining companies or METS providers — whether across exploration, mine planning, extraction, processing, maintenance, environmental management, logistics, workforce development or any other part of the mining value chain. 
  • Relevant to the mining and METS audience: The solution must be something mining operators, METS providers and technology companies will find valuable and want to explore further — either as an end user, integration partner or supply chain participant. 
  • Operational track record: The business should be currently operating and able to demonstrate its capability, whether through existing contracts, pilot deployments, case studies or client testimonials. 

Application Form

We are inviting Indigenous-led businesses to nominate to showcase their innovations in the First Nations Innovation Zone at the Global Resources Innovation Expo, 23-24 June 2026, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. Successful nominees will receive fully funded exhibition space and delegate access to present their products and services directly to mining companies and METS providers.

Complete your details below to receive the nomination form.

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Driving the Future of Resources 

As the resources sector accelerates toward new technologies, new markets and new expectations, Indigenous businesses are playing an increasingly important role. 

The First Nations Innovation Zone places this contribution at the centre of GRX27 — highlighting how Indigenous innovation is shaping: 

  • Project development and operations 
  • Environmental and land management 
  • Technology adoption 
  • Workforce participation 
  • Community and stakeholder engagement 

It reflects a future where Indigenous enterprise is embedded in the success of the sector. 

First Nations Hub