Federal government announces $850,000 for Indigenous critical minerals projects

The federal government announced $850,000 to support 14 Indigenous-led critical minerals projects in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario. Several communities will receive $50,000 each to support engagement work for a proposed Greenstone Transmission Line upgrade and a Ring of Fire utility corridor study.

The federal government announced a new round of funding for Indigenous-led critical mineral development projects at a media event in Thunder Bay. Minister of Jobs and Families Patty Hajdu said the funding is intended to support project formation, partnerships and community engagement. The announcement covers projects in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario and includes support for infrastructure and feasibility work. The funds are part of broader discussions about reliable sources of critical minerals and regional economic development. Key details: - The government is providing $850,000 to support 14 projects across British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario. - Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, Aroland First Nation, Animbiigoo Zaagi'igan Anishinaabek, Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, Ginoogaming First Nation and Red Rock Indian Band are each receiving $50,000 to form projects, build partnerships and undertake community engagement to support free, prior and informed consent for a proposed Greenstone Transmission Line upgrade. - The proposed transmission upgrade would raise capacity from 115 kV to 230 kV to support critical mineral projects in the region. - Paul Gladu, chief of Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, reported recurring power outages and said more reliable power is needed to run community infrastructure such as the sawmill. - Nibinamik First Nation is receiving $50,000 to study the feasibility of a utility corridor in the Ring of Fire area. Summary: The funding is intended to support Indigenous-led engagement, planning and feasibility work tied to critical mineral development and local infrastructure. How these projects will proceed in detail and the next formal steps were not specified in the announcement and remain undetermined at this time.