MICA is addressing the critical need to secure global resources for the future by enabling the implementation of advanced mining technologies to drive progress.
The Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI) has developed a programme and a network aimed at tackling the existential opportunity of securing global resources for the future. The Mining Innovation Commercialisation Accelerator (MICA), funded by industry and the Government of Canada from 2021-2026, brings together stakeholders from across the mining industry, academia, and government to foster the development and adoption of cutting-edge mining technologies that will advance progress in sustainability and efficiency.
The Innovation Platform spoke with CEMI Vice President of Business Development and MICA Network Director Chamirai Charles Nyabeze to learn more about MICA and the platform’s comprehensive approach to creating global opportunities for Canadian-made technologies.
What are the challenges for promoting Canadian technologies to the global mining marketplace?
One of the challenges of promoting Canadian technologies is accessing global mining markets. It is difficult to identify opportunities and gain visibility because mines are often located in remote areas, requiring venturing off the beaten path to reach them.
The lack of technology support infrastructure in host countries can hinder the success and continuity of Canadian technologies. Winning a project at a global destination is one thing, but ensuring ongoing support for technology is equally important. Some Canadian companies lack experience in economic development and expertise in operating in global locations, which makes these projects even more daunting.
Additionally, Canadians tend to be more cautious about taking risks. Political risk in certain areas can make it challenging to do business, and we are cautious about investing in high-risk countries, even though they may offer significant opportunities.
What are the opportunities for Canadian technologies in international markets?
The global community is increasingly moving towards greener practices. The Canadian brand is recognised globally, in part due to our strong sense of social responsibility. Canada has a strong reputation for producing high-quality, sustainable goods, and we anticipate a rise in demand for our solutions as a result.
Furthermore, Canada boasts comprehensive expertise in various forms of mining, including open-pit and underground mining, as well as a diverse range of minerals and metals – from coal, uranium, and oil sands to cobalt, nickel, copper, and precious metals like gold and diamonds.
Canada has a diverse mining sector, which means that the technologies developed here can be applied to various types of mining operations. Given Canada’s active mining sector, these technologies have undergone rigorous testing and proven success, establishing a solid track record.
As the global demand for cleaner and greener mining practices grows, Canada stands at the forefront with a wealth of technologies, particularly through our Mining Innovation Commercialisation Accelerator (MICA). These technologies are designed to enhance mining efficiency, environmental conscientiousness, productivity, and safety.
Moreover, mining technology plays a pivotal role in securing the social licence to operate by instilling confidence in the communities that mining activities will be conducted responsibly to avoid any potential disasters.
How is MICA different from other organisations promoting Canadian mining technologies?
The MICA is a national network based in Canada with a global reach that aims to support innovation in the mining industry and expedite the commercialisation of mining technologies. Our ultimate objective is to make a significant impact by addressing the essential needs of a resource-driven world.
MICA’s approach is comprehensive, encompassing all mineral and metal types. It involves addressing various stages of mining, from prospecting to rehabilitation, making it distinct as a membership-based organisation that encompasses the full spectrum of mining technologies.
MICA is tailored to be a meeting place for innovators and consumers of innovation. On the innovator side, MICA mostly engages small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the supply service sector. On the consumers of innovation, MICA engages mine operators and technology integrators. Our membership structure fosters more of a discussion-based approach, with our members seeking our support in regard to funding and commercial services. Connecting innovators to opportunities to commercialise their solutions is a community sport that engages various stakeholders across the entire mining value and supply chain.
Our global outreach approach sets us apart. We have invested in 50 innovative technology projects spanning the entire mining process, from prospecting to mine closure and asset rehabilitation.
Currently, we are in the process of establishing an international network of organisations dedicated to advancing the mining industry. This network includes creating pathways to leverage globally relevant funding programmes like New Horizon and Eureka. As part of this, MICA has enlisted the expertise of a global outreach team that includes boots-on-the-ground business development resources in South Africa to support outreach in emerging markets.
The Canadian government has endorsed MICA to support transformative technologies for the mining industry. The aim is to serve Canadian mining needs and create global opportunities for Canadian-made technologies. MICA is, therefore, positioned to directly impact Canada’s GDP.
© shutterstock/Darunrat Wongsuvan
In addition to funding, we are deeply committed to nurturing and guiding projects. We accompany and support projects throughout their journey to becoming commercially viable. Our focus lies in pioneering cutting-edge mining technologies that have not yet gained traction rather than only endorsing existing proven solutions. MICA aims to champion demonstration projects and establish proof of concepts in environments mirroring real-world conditions. This, we believe, is the catalyst for technology adoption and integration into business systems.
MICA stands to be the definitive globally relevant one-stop-shop for accessing emerging technologies spanning the entire mining cycle.
What specific initiatives or programmes can MICA implement to effectively connect Canadian technology companies with potential international partners?
MICA has appointed a dedicated full-time global outreach director to facilitate the expansion of international markets for various Canadian technologies. Our strategy involves identifying ecosystem-level organisations in foreign jurisdictions and establishing connections with them. This approach is mutually beneficial for both Canadian cities and the countries hosting mines with natural resources. It is crucial for us to honour the national interests of the countries to which we introduce our mining technologies and ensure that resources are extracted sustainably and respectfully.
Fundamentally, our approach aims to integrate Canadian technologies with the local ecosystem and contribute to the creation of new jobs and skillsets in those countries.
As part of our global outreach, we conduct missions to introduce Canadian technologies to specific locations and engage with local stakeholders. In Europe, there are funding programmes such as Horizon Europe that we can use to develop and customise technologies further. Thanks to MICA’s global outreach strategy, we are able to leverage these programmes to create solutions tailored to the specific needs of different areas.
Through this work, MICA will foster international collaboration, build strong partnerships, conduct business ethically and respectfully, and empower local communities and businesses in host nations.
Another significant focus area is mobilising private capital. We are introducing the first-of-its-kind Canadian Mining Innovation Venture Fund. This will attract funding from family investment groups, private equity firms, and individual investors. It will also appeal to mining operators who are looking to invest their capital. Through this fund, MICA hopes to reduce our reliance on government funding and become a more self-sustaining platform.
How can MICA showcase successful case studies of Canadian technology adoption in international markets?
Ultimately, people cannot buy what they don’t know exists. The mining industry values practical demonstrations. While others may label us as risk-averse, the reality is that we are simply cautious and methodical. The process of introducing new ideas can be lengthy, sometimes taking decades to adequately showcase new technologies and test performance.
It is crucial to consider market input in technology development to maximise adoption, and MICA is committed to ensuring that Canadian technologies are driven by international market demands.
MICA encourages collaboration and welcomes input. Recently, we welcomed suggestions to advance mining in specific areas identified for improvement. These include: energy, the environment, productivity, and digital smart autonomous mining systems.
Part of our funding is specifically designated to encourage technologies housed within MICA to showcase their products abroad and gain valuable feedback for further development. We participate in conferences, events, and workshops to showcase these technologies, providing accompanying fact sheets and videos to communicate their stories effectively. For example, in October, we will host a Canada-Chile Innovation Summit to display ten Canadian technologies and engage in discussions with partners in Chile.
Additionally, we are focusing on organising micro-events, having so far hosted over 100 events in Canada and around 150 events worldwide. Our objective is to encourage technological advancements and cultivate a culture of progress within the mining industry using advertising and platforms like LinkedIn. Establishing strong relationships is crucial. Successful business operations depend on partnerships and meaningful conversations, which in turn facilitate the access of Canadian technologies to international markets.
What metrics or benchmarks can MICA use to measure its success in promoting Canadian technology and establishing itself as the industry leader?
MICA’s success can be measured in numbers. We have supported 50 projects, identified 296 potential technology projects, and secured $640m that can be mobilised to support innovation in these projects.
Presently, we have over 100 members, encompassing innovators, mining operators, junior mining companies, and associates – organisations providing complementary innovation support services. Among them, MICA boasts seven mining company members, including Glencore, Vale, Teck Resources, BHP, Nutrien, IAMGOLD, and New Gold, each representing distinct aspects of the mining industry.
Nothing happens without a team. Dedicated, excited individuals are necessary to encourage real impact and wave the flag of mining innovation. Retaining this team is equally important for MICA in measuring its success. The team at MICA is passionate about its work and aspires to lead the global industry with exceptional standards. Our work intends to simplify and demystify the process of finding innovations that elevate the mining sector, striving to reshape the perception of mining into a positive one that attracts young talent to the industry.
MICA’s vision for a sustainable mining future
Through the utilisation of various technologies and a shared passion for accelerating innovation in mining, we are witnessing a remarkably promising future for the industry. Leading this initiative, MICA aims to serve as a pivotal global hub, fostering and supporting mining innovation.
As we move forward, MICA is committed to advancing environmental stewardship and providing exceptional service by bridging the gap between the global community and cutting-edge technology initiatives. Our objective is to boost funding from $40m to over $100m to enhance mining practices and contribute to the realisation of a low-carbon economy. Emphasising the circularity of resources, particularly critical minerals, is integral to MICA’s vision for a sustainable, eco-friendly future.
Over the remaining project timeline, MICA aims to develop technologies that support circularity across the upstream, midstream, and downstream segments of critical minerals exploration. Technological progress is vital in adapting to climate change and fostering a better world for all.
Consider the profound impact of enhancing the global mining industry. As mining progresses, all related aspects, including its values and supply chains, also advance. The effect of this seemingly minor change on the world cannot be overstated.
Please note, this article will also appear in the 19th edition of our quarterly publication.
