The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), in partnership with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) and the Council for Geoscience, has officially launched the Junior Mining Exploration Fund (JMEF) — a transformative R400 million initiative designed to unlock opportunities for emerging, black-owned mining enterprises across South Africa.
This fund marks a significant step toward inclusive economic growth in the country’s critical minerals sector, focusing on early-stage exploration activities that can lead to sustainable mining operations. With applications opening on 30 September 2025 and closing at 17:00 on 31 October 2025, this is a pivotal opportunity for qualifying junior miners to secure non-repayable grant funding that supports viable geological discovery.
Overview of the IDC Junior Mining Exploration Fund (JMEF)
The Junior Mining Exploration Fund (JMEF) was established to address historical imbalances in the mining industry by increasing access to capital and technical support for historically disadvantaged individuals and entities engaged in greenfield or brownfield mineral exploration.
Targeted at small-scale, non-listed private companies, the JMEF aims to:
- Facilitate prospecting work on under-explored ore bodies
- Enhance participation of Black South Africans in the mining value chain
- Promote equitable ownership and long-term sustainability in the sector
The first funding call allocates R160 million of the total R400 million fund, signaling the IDC’s commitment to phased, strategic investment in high-potential exploration ventures.
Funding Objectives and Grant-to-Equity Conversion Model
Unlike traditional loans or pure grants, the JMEF offers a unique convertible grant structure:
- Successful applicants receive non-repayable grant funding to conduct exploration activities
- If a viable ore body is discovered, the grant converts into equity, with the IDC taking up to 49% ownership
- The exact conversion rate will be determined by an adjudication committee based on project viability, cost recovery, and commercial potential
This model ensures shared risk and reward, aligns incentives between the funder and entrepreneur, and enables the IDC to reinvest returns into future projects, creating a self-sustaining cycle of development.
It is important to note: No funding will be provided for diamond exploration.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies as a Junior Miner?
To qualify for the JMEF, applicants must meet strict criteria defining them as a “Junior Miner”, including:
- Be a non-listed private company registered under the Companies Act 71 of 2008
- Hold a valid prospecting or mining right issued under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA), 2002
- Rights must remain valid for at least 12 months beyond the application closing date (31 October 2025)
- Operate exclusively in greenfield or brownfield exploration within South Africa
- Be at least 51% owned by Black people, as defined by the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act, 2003
- Neither the applicant nor any controlling shareholder may derive revenue from existing mining rights
These requirements ensure that funding targets true start-up explorers rather than established producers seeking additional capital.
Targeted Minerals: What Exploration Projects Are Funded?
The current call for applications focuses exclusively on exploration for strategic and critical minerals, including:
- Copper
- Lithium
- Tin
- Tungsten
- Titanium
- Uranium
- Gold
- Antimony
- Arsenic
- Fluorspar
This selection reflects national priorities around energy transition, battery manufacturing, and supply chain security. The fund does not support coal, industrial minerals outside this list, or gemstone mining (especially diamonds).
Projects must demonstrate clear geological potential and technical feasibility, supported by preliminary surveys or data where available.
Application Process and Submission Guidelines
Applications must be submitted electronically via email to ensure accessibility and traceability: jmef@idc.co.za
For those without digital access:
- Visit IDC regional offices or DMRE walk-in centres for assistance in submitting applications via email
- Hard copies are accepted only at the IDC Head Office Walk-in Centre:
Industrial Development Corporation, 19 Fredman Drive, Sandown, Sandton
Each application must include:
- Completed JMEF Application Form
- Certified copy of company registration (CIPC)
- Proof of B-BBEE ownership (affidavit or verification certificate)
- Copy of valid prospecting or mining right
- Technical exploration plan and budget
- Company financial statements (if applicable)
Incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Key Dates and Contact Information for Enquiries
Mark your calendars:
- Application Opening Date: Tuesday, 30 September 2025
- Closing Date: Friday, 31 October 2025 at 17:00 (sharp)
- Webinars for Applicants: Held on 20 and 27 June 2025 (recordings available online)
For all questions regarding eligibility, documentation, or submission procedures: Email: jmef@idc.co.za
Website: https://www.idc.co.za/junior-mining/
The IDC encourages prospective applicants to review all materials thoroughly and attend informational sessions to strengthen their proposals.
Related opportunity: TIA BRICS STI Innovation Call 2025 for Global R&D Collaboration
How to Download the Application Form and Access Support
The official JMEF Call 2 Application Form is available for free download:
Download JMEF Application Form PDF
All information is hosted on the official IDC webpage dedicated to the Junior Mining Exploration Fund.
This groundbreaking initiative represents one of the most significant public-sector investments in grassroots mining entrepreneurship in recent years. By combining financial support with technical oversight and risk-sharing mechanisms, the IDC is paving the way for a new generation of Black-owned mining leaders.
Interested and eligible junior miners are urged to prepare their documentation, confirm their rights’ validity, and submit their applications before the 31 October 2025 deadline.
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