Earlier this month, we submitted an application to Open Aster, the first open innovation call from Escondida | BHP and Aster Aceleradora. It was an opportunity to bring our optimisation expertise to one of the world’s largest mining operations.
The Opportunity
The program presented twenty-one operational challenges across equipment availability, safety, digitalisation, process optimisation, and asset life extension. Up to US$2 million in pilot funding was on the table. For a company like ours, it was exactly the kind of program we’d been looking for.
The challenges around process optimisation and efficiency felt particularly relevant to what we do. Mining operations face many of the same constraints as logistics networks, complex scheduling, resource allocation, and the need to balance cost with service delivery.
Why We Applied
We’ve had a presence in Chile for a while now. Our platform is already solving complex scheduling and optimisation problems in mining, logistics, and rail across the region. We know the industry. We know the challenges. We know what it takes to deliver results in real operational environments.
The Open Aster program was a chance to demonstrate our capabilities to one of the world’s leading mining companies. It was also an opportunity to learn from other startups and technology providers working on similar challenges.
Where We Are Now
We put together a submission and presented during the program. We’re now awaiting the results. Whatever the outcome, it was a valuable experience and a great opportunity to connect with the team at Escondida | BHP.
The process reinforced our belief that optimisation has a significant role to play in mining operations. Whether it’s scheduling maintenance, optimising haulage routes, or managing workforce allocation, the principles are the same.
