Ontario Securing a Critical Minerals Supply Chain

By Kevin Vincent
The Ontario government has committed over $7 million to 17 projects aimed at accelerating the research, development, and commercialization of innovative critical mineral technologies essential for manufacturing batteries and electric vehicles (EVs). Delivered through the Critical Minerals Innovation Fund (CMIF), this investment is expected to bolster Ontario’s critical minerals supply chain, create jobs, and enhance global competitiveness in the mining sector.
“As our economy grows with an increased need for critical minerals, our government is strengthening a made-in-Ontario supply chain, ready to fuel the technologies of tomorrow,” said George Pirie, Minister of Mines. “Investments like this keep us competitive in global markets and ensure a stable supply chain for the manufacturing of cars, electronics, and other technologies.”
Key Projects in Timmins
The funding supports projects across a range of sectors, including mineral exploration, extraction, processing, and recycling. Two notable projects in Timmins include:
• NetZero Metals: Awarded $495,740 to advance its low-cost, low-carbon nickel processing facility that will help supply critical materials to Ontario’s EV sector.
• EV Nickel Inc.: Allocated $223,552 to develop a bioleaching process and finalize the design of its pilot plant to produce clean, high-grade nickel for the EV supply chain.
Securing Ontario’s Critical Minerals Future
A robust critical minerals industry not only strengthens Ontario’s EV sector but supports key industries such as aerospace, defence, information technology, and clean energy. By fostering consistent access to these resources, the province is mitigating the risks of global supply chain disruptions and positioning Ontario as a leader in sustainable resource development.
Stephen Crawford, Associate Minister of Mines, emphasized the strategic impact of the initiative, saying, “This effort connects Ontario’s northern minerals sector with communities in the south, building a fully integrated supply chain. It strengthens critical minerals production, drives innovation, boosts global competitiveness, and creates opportunities for workers, businesses, and Indigenous communities.”
Industry Insights
Mark Selby, CEO of Canada Nickel and Chair of NetZero Metals, underscored the importance of Ontario’s support:
“We sincerely thank the Government of Ontario for their vital investment in advancing the development of our NetZero Metals facility. This support is pivotal in addressing the critical demand for domestically produced battery metals, while pioneering low-carbon, biochar-based processing technologies that will set a new standard for sustainability in stainless, alloy steel, and nickel production. Together, we are building a robust supply chain to drive the transition to a cleaner future.”
Paul Davis, Vice President of Exploration at EV Nickel Inc., highlighted the benefits of green technology, stating, “Developing the critical minerals supply chain in Timmins using environmentally beneficial, green technologies will be a great benefit for both EV Nickel Inc. and the Province of Ontario.”
Looking Ahead
Since its launch in 2022 as part of the Ontario Critical Minerals Strategy, CMIF has supported 29 innovative projects, with a total investment of $20 million to date. The recent 2024 Budget expanded the fund by $15 million over three years, demonstrating the province’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation in critical minerals.
Priya Tandon, President of the Ontario Mining Association, concluded, “Ontario’s strategic investments in critical minerals enable us to develop groundbreaking solutions that benefit our environment and accelerate the energy transition. This positions Ontario as a global leader in responsible mining and paves the way for a sustainable future.”
Quick Facts
• CMIF funds up to 50% of eligible project costs, capped at $500,000 per project.
• The fund is open to private-sector businesses, research institutions, and public-private collaborations operating in Ontario.
• Ontario’s critical minerals strategy aligns with its broader goals of building a sustainable, competitive economy.
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