The +Local Capacity Program concluded at Impulsa Mendoza’s offices in Uspallata, where the tenth and final session of this training and networking initiative for mining industry suppliers was held.
Throughout 2026, the program, organized by the Mining Directorate of the Ministry of Energy and Environment, brought together more than 300 participants and 50 institutions around shared goals: strengthening local capabilities, building connections among key stakeholders, and expanding opportunities for Mendoza-based companies and institutions to participate in the development of the mining industry.
The ten sessions brought together representatives from academia and the scientific community, private companies, consulting firms, foundations, independent professionals, and government agencies, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among the different sectors connected to mining.
“Over the course of these ten sessions, we have seen an ecosystem take shape, with different sectors increasingly complementing one another and working together. Mining requires education and training, scientific expertise, infrastructure, construction, suppliers, and professionals who support every stage of development. The participation of more than 300 people and 50 institutions shows that Mendoza is building the capabilities needed to support the sector’s growth,” said Minister of Energy and Environment Jimena Latorre.
“This program focused on continuing to create opportunities for the mining industry and the local business community to connect, while fostering new business opportunities and strengthening the capabilities of Mendoza-based companies and institutions,” said Javier Frías, Coordinator of the Sustainable Development Area at the Mining Directorate.
Internationalization, Networking, and Business Opportunities
The final session focused on opportunities for suppliers to expand into international markets, build professional networks, and access new business opportunities. Particular attention was given to the needs of mining companies and Mendoza’s potential for regional, technological, and industrial development.
One of the key topics was the dynamics of the mining industry and the needs of operating companies throughout the different stages of metal mining projects, along with an assessment of local suppliers with the potential to meet those requirements. The presentation was delivered by Carla Martínez of INTI Mendoza.
The session also provided tools for exploring new forms of business organization. Fernando Oropeza and Juan Ramiro of Fundación Fucadea discussed the creation of cooperatives to provide services to the mining sector and the opportunities these structures can offer local suppliers.
Javier Sáez Palavecino of Universidad Juan Agustín Maza delivered a presentation on international expansion specifically for mining industry suppliers, focusing on the tools and capabilities companies need to enter new markets and pursue new business opportunities.
Another topic was the comprehensive development of local suppliers. Melisa Poblete and David Espinosa of BMP Consultora discussed how companies can prepare to meet the specific standards and requirements of the mining industry while developing the flexibility needed to adapt to an evolving sector.
Finally, José Luis López and Gustavo Gutiérrez of VETAS Consultora Malargüe presented on the Malargüe Western Mining District and the Mining Cluster, with particular emphasis on the opportunities that mining projects in the department could create for local companies and institutions.
Ten Sessions to Strengthen Local Capabilities
Throughout 2026, the +Local Capacity Program provided training and networking opportunities designed to connect the needs of the mining industry with the capabilities already available in Mendoza.
The participation of more than 50 institutions brought together perspectives and expertise from universities, scientific and technical organizations, companies, consulting firms, foundations, independent professionals, and government agencies.
Across its ten sessions, the program encouraged knowledge sharing, helped identify new opportunities, and provided companies and suppliers with tools to prepare for the growth of mining activity and the resulting demand for goods and services.
As a final networking opportunity, a gathering with mining companies and other participants in the program will be held in September. Representatives from different mining projects will provide updates on their initiatives, discuss their development outlook, and share information about potential opportunities for local suppliers.