ONTARIO-The Ontario government says it is investing over $7 million in 17 projects to accelerate research, development and commercialization of innovative technologies to help the province meet the increasing global demand for critical minerals needed to manufacture batteries and electric vehicles.
The funding, delivered through the Critical Minerals Innovation Fund, will help stimulate investment in Ontario’s critical minerals supply chain and create jobs 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.”
The projects receiving funding span a range of focus areas such as mineral exploration, extraction, processing, advanced manufacturing, and recycling of minerals. Two local projects include:
- $495,740 to NetZero Metals to support low carbon, low-cost nickel processing capacity in Timmins.
- $223,552 to EV Nickel Inc. to advance its bioleaching process and prepare the final design for its pilot plant in Timmins to produce high-grade clean nickel to support the EV supply chain.
“I’m proud this initiative helps connect Ontario’s northern minerals sector with communities in the south, building a fully integrated supply chain,” said Stephen Crawford, Associate Minister of Mines. “It strengthens critical minerals production, drives innovation, boosts global competitiveness, and creates opportunities for workers, businesses, and Indigenous communities. Our government is making these investments to cement Ontario’s position as a leader in sustainable growth and advanced manufacturing.”
