Grants of up to $250,000 to support exploration programs that are technically sound, innovative, and that contribute to the discovery of critical minerals in Queensland.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Collaborative Exploration Initiative (CEI)?
The Collaborative Exploration Initiative (CEI), now in its ninth round, is a grant opportunity designed to support mineral exploration activities in Queensland. The initiative is an integral part of the Queensland Resources Industry Development Plan (QRIDP) and aims to discover critical minerals necessary for Queensland’s renewable energy transformation. The CEI focuses on innovative exploration projects that fill vital knowledge gaps, contributing to Queensland’s future as a leader in mineral discovery and energy transition.
CEI level of support
- Maximum Individual Funding: Up to $250,000 per program.
- Maximum Cumulative Funding: For multiple applications from the same applicant, the cumulative total is capped at $400,000.
Co-contribution:
There is no co-contribution requirement. However, only direct activity costs are eligible for reimbursement.
CEI important dates
- This program is currently closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
CEI objectives
- The main objective of the CEI Round 9 is to support innovative mineral exploration programs that address geoscientific knowledge gaps in Queensland.
- The initiative places a particular emphasis on critical and strategic minerals required for energy transition, such as copper, lithium, and cobalt. CEI projects must aim to generate public data that enhances exploration activities for other operators in Queensland.
Projects eligible for CEI support
The CEI will fund projects focusing on the exploration of critical and strategic minerals. Eligible projects include drilling, geophysical surveys, and geochemical sampling aimed at proving new exploration concepts or discovering new mineral deposits.
Ineligible expenditures:
- Application preparation costs.
- Wages for general labour-hire contractors.
- Cultural and environmental heritage clearances.
- Food and accommodation for general-purpose staff.
- Land access agreements and compensation.
- Legal advice and licensing expenses.
- Training courses.
- Track and drill pad preparation.
- Vehicle expenses (for general field activities).
Other Collaborative Exploration Initiative important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for CEI support
- Applicants must hold or operate an Exploration Permit for Minerals (EPM), Mineral Development Lease (MDL), or Mining Lease (ML) in Queensland.
- Collaborative applications are encouraged, but at least one applicant must be the holder of an eligible EPM within the group.
- Other requirements include holding a valid Australian Business Number (ABN/ACN), public liability insurance of at least $20 million, and meeting financial probity checks.
CEI assessment criteria
All proposals will be evaluated by a technical assessment panel based on the following criteria:
1. Technical Proposal
- Demonstrated understanding of known geology, (relevant) previous exploration and target style (15%)
- Selection of appropriate exploration technique and critical or strategic minerals for target style or objectives (10%)
- Accurately costed budget and realistic timeframe (15%)
- Clear, fully labelled and relevant figures supporting the proposal (10%)
2. Program Potential
- Extent to which the program applies traditional exploration techniques or adopts new and innovative methods and models to aid in discovery. The score is based on the Applicants innovation and application of technique (innovation). (20%)
- Extent to which the program addresses an important geoscientific knowledge gap and contributes to the body of public geoscientific knowledge and data in Queensland (knowledge gaps). (20%)
- Potential of the program to generate new targets beyond the explorer’s own tenements and attract further exploration investment (advancing Queensland’s resources). (10%)
How do I get the CEI?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Deliver the project as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the CEI application
Before applying, applicants should prepare the following:
- Technical proposal, including a detailed geological description and exploration techniques.
- Proposed budget, clearly detailing costs.
- Assurance letters confirming sufficient funds and technical capacity.
- Land access agreements, environmental approvals, and cultural heritage clearances.
- Contractor assurances confirming availability to undertake the proposed activities.
- Public liability insurance evidence.
Applying for the CEI
Applications are submitted via www.business.qld.gov.au.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
CEI resources
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