This paper presents a comprehensive summary of exploratory experimental research conducted by the ‘Industry-college-institute Cooperation’ technology innovation talent team in Guizhou Province, focusing on a novel intelligent exploration model leveraging big data. Utilizing a collaborative innovation system integrating industry-college-institute cooperation, the team undertook a retrospective analysis of mineral exploration processes employing big data for the famous ‘Datangpo’ manganese ore concentration area in China, as well as several concealed giant manganese deposits. Their research aimed to explore intelligent predictive methodologies and digital exploration techniques for deep-seated mineral resources, with the goal of cultivating and developing new quality productivity in the field of geological and mineral exploration. The team developed a big data-based metallogenic schema and exploration model, established a comprehensive geological big data resource system. They refined and widely promoted digital exploration technologies system, created a province-wide three-dimensional glass earth in Guizhou Province, and developed multi-scale, multi-objective progressive mineral prediction techniques. These efforts have significantly accelerated the digital transformation of geological and mineral exploration in Guizhou Province. Their efforts led to the discovery of multiple concealed exploration targets, including manganese, phosphate, bauxite, lead-zinc (germanium), barite, and newly identified altered limestone-type lithium deposits, contributing to significant advancements in Guizhou new round of prospecting breakthrough strategic action. The key outcomes indicate that the team’s research not only accelerates the digital transformation of geological mineral exploration but also fosters a deep integration with big data, cultivating and developing new quality productivity in the field of geological and mineral exploration and supporting breakthroughs in the exploration of concealed minerals. To further advance this digital transformation and develop a digital economy in geology, it is crucial to continue initiatives aimed at enhancing ‘Data cloud service, Deep integration of big data, and Enterprise intelligent transformation’ in exploration, strengthen the key technology research and development, and vigorously promote these applications, while continuously exploring, improving, and developing in practice.