Abstract
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)’s Minerals Programs Branch is taking on a leadership role, through collaboration with federal partners, in developing and implementing a suite of programs to support all six key areas identified in the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy. These funding opportunities have resulted from the Government of Canada’s commitment of $47.7 million through budget 2021 and $3.8 billion through Budget 2022. These investments are in addition to tax incentives (of over $400 million) and funds to establish governance structures ($9.6 million to establish a dedicated Critical Minerals Centre of Excellence). The suite of programs include:
• Critical Minerals Research, Development and Demonstration
• Critical Minerals Geoscience and Data Initiative
• Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships Program
• Global Partnerships Program
• Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund
Over the next several years, these historic investments will support and empower businesses, workers, and communities across our country to accelerate the development of strategic projects in critical mineral mining, processing, manufacturing, and waste reduction with a focus on driving research, innovation and exploration; strengthening global leadership and security; advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples; and supporting the development of enabling infrastructure. The federal government is supporting, strengthening and expanding innovative mining ecosystems so Canada is positioned to seize this generational economic opportunity as a stable supplier of critical minerals – at home and abroad. We are committed to employing innovative ways to capture value from alternative sources and waste streams, recycling technologies, and traditional Indigenous conservation practices.
This presentation will inform stakeholders on federal government programs and other incentives that can support, advance critical mineral resource development, as well present the emerging success resulting from these programs.