Government of Canada investing in mining research and development in Northern Ontario
News release
FedNor investment of $440,948 in Lakehead University will support increases in the discovery and development of mining opportunities in Northern Ontario and Canada
March 3, 2026 – Toronto, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
In a rapidly changing world, Canada’s Government is focused on what we can control; building a stronger more resilient Canada. Through strategic investments that help us empower Canadians, communities and industries that drive our economy forward, including Northern Ontario’s globally recognized mining sector.
Yesterday, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North, announced an investment of $$440,948 in support of mining research and the expansion of mining efforts in Northern Ontario. The announcement was made at the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) 2026 convention.
This investment will support Lakehead University in equipping a new mining research laboratory at the university’s Thunder Bay campus. The laboratory upgrades will facilitate the work of a new industry research chair, who will be focused on developing new model systems for gold deposits. It will enable Lakehead University to acquire and install three major instruments that will form the core of a new microanalytical facility. In addition to these equipment purchases, FedNor will support small electrical panel upgrades to an existing laboratory space.
This investment will directly support work that will help in discovering new gold deposits as well as other future mining and exploration opportunities with greater efficiency and effectiveness. This work will help guide the development of the mineral exploration industry ensuring that Northern Ontario and Canada remain at the forefront of mineral exploration and development for years to come.
As Lakehead University will retain the equipment following the project’s completion, it will create a unique analytical facility in the region that will benefit researchers at the university and provide a valuable resource for local mining and exploration companies. The facility will support training of graduate students in the skills necessary to address research questions and succeed as industry geologists, a major growth sector and economic opportunity for Northwestern Ontario.
Quotes
“When we invest in natural resource development we invest in Northern Ontario’s economy, and Canada’s future. As Northern Ontario is laying the groundwork for strong and resilient communities, investing in cutting-edge research and innovation helps us remain global leaders who maintain a position at the head of the table by staying smart and adaptable. This project will define the future of mining research, support our industry experts, and ensure our regions stay competitive for generations to come.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor
“Mining is foundational to the economy of northwestern Ontario. Today’s investment from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation and FedNor strengthens not only the industry, but the people, communities and economies that depend on these raw materials. This strategic investment in Lakehead’s unmatched expertise doesn’t just support discovery, it strengthens Canada’s position as a world leader in responsible mining innovation.”
- Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice-Chancellor, Lakehead University
Quick facts
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Lakehead University is a learner-centred post-secondary institution that operates campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia.
- Lakehead is the proud host to 11 Canada Research Chairs and revolutionary facilities such as the world-renowned Paleo-DNA Laboratory and the Biorefining Research Institute.
- Lakehead also offers a blend of academic excellence and opportunity with a rich variety of social and recreational activities.
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The funding announced yesterday is provided through FedNor’s Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation Fund (REGI), which supports the growth of Northern Ontario businesses, their expansion into new markets, and their adoption of new technologies and processes.
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The mining and minerals sector directly and indirectly supports over 700,000 jobs across Canada, and contributes over $150 billion annually to the national GDP.
Associated links
Contacts
Jennifer Kozelj
Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor
jennifer.kozelj@labour-travail.gc.ca
Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Media Relations