The government will provide financial support to priority junior exploration and mining companies with market caps of less than $50 million to attend the IMARC in Melbourne from November 10-12.

A key fixture on the global mining calendar and the leading conference for the Asia Pacific region, the second annual IMARC is expected to attract more than 3000 attendees from more than 35 countries and provide a unique opportunity for businesses to explore and forge new relationships and promote their capability in the mining sector internationally.

Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said the government recognised the importance of the junior explorers and miners to the resources sector and the businesses that depend on their growth and success.

“Through this funding initiative, we are giving junior explorers and miners the unique opportunity to gain exposure at IMARC and professionally present their new project to potential investors,” she said.

As exhibitors, junior explorers and miners will be able to showcase their projects to investors, see the latest the mining sector has to offer and make the necessary connections to access capital, markets, technology and innovation.

Up to $1500 in funding towards exhibiting at IMARC will be provided to companies that are registered and based in Victoria. For interstate companies operating in Victoria and elsewhere, up to $2000 will be provided towards exhibiting at IMARC.

The resources sector is a global driver for many of the Victorian government’s priority sectors including professional services, advanced manufacturing and international education.