May 20, 2026 Iqaluit, Nunavut Natural Resources Canada
The Government of Canada is making strategic investments to advance Canada's critical minerals potential, reinforce Arctic sovereignty and create long‑term economic prosperity for northern and Indigenous communities.
Today, the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced more than $55 million in federal funding for two projects that will strengthen Arctic infrastructure, support export diversification and help build resilient Canadian minerals supply chains.
Through the First and Last Mile Fund, planning and preconstruction work for the West Kitikmeot Resources Corporation's Grays Bay Road and Port project has been conditionally approved for up to $50 million. This funding will advance the proposed deepwater Arctic port at Grays Bay and a 230‑kilometre all‑season road, following the project's referral to the Major Projects Office by Prime Minister Carney this March. The road would link the proposed deepwater Arctic port at Grays Bay and unlock future project development in zinc and copper.
Minister Hodgson also announced a $5-million investment in Glacies Technologies Inc. This investment will support a low‑emissions alternative to diesel for mine heating and ventilation, which could reduce emissions and cut costs at Northern mines. The project will pilot at B2Gold, a gold mine in the western Kitikmeot Region of Nunavut.
These investments build on the Government of Canada's broader efforts, outlined in the 2026 Spring Economic Update, to advance nation-building infrastructure, strengthen critical minerals supply chains and invest in our Arctic security and sovereignty. As global demand for commodities rises and Arctic trade routes gain importance, our strategy and investments will ensure Canada remains a trusted, responsible mining superpower while delivering lasting benefits for communities from coast to coast to coast.
Other languages (Inuinnaqtun and Inuktitut) will be published once available.
