Small-cap stocks have always been the favourite of investors due to their potential opportunities. The mining industry is known for growing small-cap companies that later become significant players. Investing in small-cap stocks with strong growth potential can offer lucrative opportunities for investors seeking high returns. 

In this article, we will discuss 5 small-cap mining-related stocks that can become large-cap in the future.

Cobre Limited (ASX: $CBE)

Overview: Cobre Limited is focused on advancing its KCB project in Botswana and the Perrinvale Copper Project in Western Australia, where it has identified significant high-grade copper mineralization. Recently they joined hands for the test of the In Situ process for the extraction of the copper found in the Kalahari Copper Belt. They have found high-grade copper and a special method to extract it; this is what gives it an edge against the competitors. 

Cobre is the 2nd largest player at the KCB in a matter of land holding, this area has a record of very fast nearly 3 years of process from exploration to development, so once they start the extraction, Cobre may be a huge company.

The company's strategic positioning in the copper market, along with the increasing demand for copper in renewable energy infrastructure and electric vehicles, presents substantial growth potential.

Potential for Growth: As Cobre continues to progress with exploration activities and potentially moves towards production, it could attract significant investor attention and transition into a large-cap player within the mining sector.

Caravel Minerals (ASX: $CVV)

Overview: Caravel Minerals Limited is an Australian-based exploration company focused on the exploration and development of copper deposits in Western Australia. The company's primary asset is the Caravel Copper Project, located in the emerging copper-rich region of the Wheatbelt in Western Australia. Caravel Minerals aims to unlock the value of this project through exploration activities and feasibility studies.

Potential for Growth: Caravel Minerals' Caravel Copper Project is strategically located within proximity to existing infrastructure, including roads, power, and water, which could potentially facilitate the development of mining operations. The project has shown promising signs of significant copper mineralization through drilling programs, indicating the potential for a substantial resource base. With ongoing exploration efforts and the advancement of feasibility studies, Caravel Minerals has the opportunity to transition from a small-cap exploration company to a significant player in the copper mining sector.

Chalice Mining Limited (ASX: $CHN)

Overview: Chalice Mining is an exploration company focused on discovering and developing high-grade gold and base metals deposits in Australia. The company gained significant attention with its Julimar Nickel-Copper-PGE Project in Western Australia, where it made a substantial discovery.

Chalice Mining's success at the Julimar Project has positioned it as a leading player in the Australian exploration sector. The company's market capitalization has surged following the discovery, reflecting investor confidence in its exploration potential and management's ability to deliver value.

Potential for Growth: With ongoing exploration efforts and the potential for resource expansion at its key projects, Chalice Mining has the opportunity to grow its market capitalization as it progresses towards resource delineation and development. 

Aeris Resources Limited (ASX: $AIS)

Overview: Aeris Resources is an Australian mining company with a focus on copper and gold projects. The company operates the Tritton Copper Operations in New South Wales, which includes multiple underground mines and processing facilities. Additionally, Aeris holds interests in several exploration and development projects, positioning it for further growth in the resources sector.

In addition to its producing assets, Aeris Resources holds interests in several exploration and development projects with significant upside potential. These projects include the Torrens Exploration Project in South Australia, which is prospective for iron oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) mineralization, and the Cracow Gold Operations in Queensland, where the company is actively exploring high-grade gold deposits.

Potential for Growth: Aeris Resources has demonstrated a track record of operational success at its Tritton Copper Operations, consistently achieving production targets and maintaining low operating costs. The company's strong cash flow generation from its existing operations provides a solid foundation for growth and exploration activities.

Hillgrove Resources Limited (ASX: $HGO)

Overview: Hillgrove Resources Limited is an Australian mining company with a focus on gold and base metals projects. The company's flagship asset is the Kanmantoo Copper Mine located in South Australia. Additionally, Hillgrove holds interests in exploration projects with potential for gold, copper, and other base metals across Australia.

In addition to its producing assets, Hillgrove Resources maintains a portfolio of exploration projects with significant upside potential. These projects are located in highly prospective mineral provinces across Australia and target various commodities, including gold, copper, and base metals.

Potential for Growth: With a strong foundation of producing assets, a pipeline of exploration projects, and a focus on responsible mining practices, Hillgrove Resources is well-positioned for continued growth and value creation. The company's strategic initiatives, coupled with favourable market conditions for base metals and precious metals, present significant opportunities for shareholders.

Bottom Line

These small-cap ASX-listed mining-related companies represent compelling investment opportunities for investors seeking exposure to the resources sector. While investing in small-cap stocks carries inherent risks, companies with strong fundamentals, promising projects, and prudent management teams have the potential to grow into large-cap entities over time.