Key Takeaways
- Ontario has awarded nearly $900,000 to two mining companies piloting advanced recovery technologies.
- Magna Mining will conduct metallurgical studies to improve nickel and copper yields.
- Rock Tech Lithium will test ore sorting for low-grade spodumene.
- Funding supports Ontario’s Critical Minerals Strategy and domestic battery supply chain goals.
- Environmental experts caution that strong oversight is needed to prevent negative impacts.
SUDBURY, Ontario — The Ontario government has committed nearly $900,000 in Ontario critical minerals funding, supporting two companies developing technologies to recover metals essential to electric vehicles and renewable energy.
The grants are part of the province’s Critical Minerals Innovation Fund, a cornerstone of Ontario’s strategy to secure reliable domestic supplies of nickel, copper and lithium.
“Ontario critical minerals funding helps companies drive innovation and secure our province’s role in the clean economy,” said Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce. “These investments position Ontario as a leader in sustainable resource development.”
Ontario Critical Minerals Funding Recipients – 2025
| Company | Project Location | Funding Amount | Focus Metals | Project Objective |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magna Mining | Sudbury Basin | $500,000 | Nickel, Copper | Improve metallurgical recoveries |
| Rock Tech Lithium | Georgia Lake, Beardmore | $388,074 | Lithium | Develop ore-sorting for low-grade spodumene |
Nickel and Copper Processing in Sudbury
Magna Mining, headquartered in Sudbury, was awarded $500,000 in Ontario critical minerals funding to conduct metallurgical studies at its Crean Hill project, a former Inco mine acquired in 2022.
“This funding validates our work to revitalize legacy mining assets using modern processing methods,” said Paul Fowler, Magna’s senior vice president. “We aim to increase nickel and copper production in Sudbury over the next several years.”
Magna plans to use the grant to improve metal recoveries from low-grade ore and tailings. The company has also expressed interest in Ontario’s $500-million Critical Minerals Processing Fund, which supports larger-scale refining and processing facilities.
Advancing Lithium Recovery in Northwestern Ontario
In northwestern Ontario, Rock Tech Lithium secured $388,074 to develop an ore-sorting technology for its Georgia Lake project near Beardmore. The pilot aims to prove that low-grade spodumene can be upgraded to battery-grade lithium more economically.
“This Ontario critical minerals funding enables us to test technology that could transform lithium production in Canada,” said Mirco Wojnarowicz, Rock Tech’s CEO. “If successful, it will help supply North American battery manufacturers.”
The company is collaborating with Queen’s University and Stark Technologies on the pilot, with results expected in 2025. Rock Tech also plans to construct a lithium refinery in Red Rock on Lake Superior’s north shore.
Policy Context and Market Dynamics
The announcement reflects a broader push to strengthen Ontario’s mining sector and domestic battery supply chain. The province’s Critical Minerals Strategy emphasizes the role of innovation in securing long-term competitiveness.
“Ontario critical minerals funding is not just about today’s projects—it’s about building capacity that will serve the industry for decades,” Lecce said.
Analysts say public support is essential to reduce risk and encourage investment in new technologies.
“These grants are a strategic signal,” said Alex Grant, a lithium processing consultant. “They show Ontario is serious about differentiating on technology and sustainability.”
Balancing Growth and Oversight
Environmental advocates caution that funding programs should be matched with strong oversight.
“Ontario critical minerals funding must be accompanied by rigorous environmental assessments,” said Angela Carter, a professor of environmental policy at the University of Waterloo. “Communities need a clear voice in shaping these projects.”
Magna and Rock Tech have stated that pilot studies will inform not only project economics but also environmental and social planning.
Building the Foundation for a Clean Economy
For Sudbury, where mining has defined the local economy for over a century, the grants mark a new phase focused on sustainable production. Magna’s work at Crean Hill exemplifies how existing assets can be retooled to meet modern standards.
Meanwhile, Rock Tech’s collaboration with Queen’s University illustrates the growing role of academic partnerships in the sector.
“Every investment in Ontario critical minerals funding builds local expertise and technological leadership,” Lecce said. “It’s a competitive advantage we intend to keep.”
Outlook
Both companies will advance pilot testing over the next year. Magna expects to complete metallurgical assessments by early 2026, while Rock Tech plans to share ore-sorting results by late 2025.
With nearly $900,000 in Ontario critical minerals funding now committed, the province is betting that targeted support and innovation will transform its mining sector into a cornerstone of the clean economy.
