The Ontario PC government is taking another major step to protect Ontario’s economy by investing in the next generation of mining projects that will power our province for decades to come.
Support for 68 early exploration projects through the Ontario Junior Exploration Program (OJEP) reflects our government’s commitment to building a stronger, more self-reliant Ontario. By backing early-stage exploration, we are helping unlock the minerals that will drive future growth, create good-paying jobs and secure made-in-Ontario supply chains.
At a time of global uncertainty, Ontario is leading. While others hesitate, our government is investing in the North, supporting workers and ensuring Ontario remains the top destination in Canada for mining investment.
This investment will:
- Support 71 jobs in northern and rural communities
- Generate $18 million in economic activity
- Help discover the critical minerals needed for batteries, advanced manufacturing and defence technologies
Mining is at the heart of Ontario’s economic future. From lithium and nickel to rare earth elements, the resources found in our province will power everything from electric vehicles to next-generation technologies.
But these discoveries don’t happen on their own.
Early exploration is high-risk, with only a fraction of projects ever becoming operating mines. That’s why our government’s targeted support is so important, helping prospectors and junior companies move projects forward, attract private investment and turn potential into opportunity.
Through OJEP, our government is:
- Covering up to 50% of eligible exploration costs
- Unlocking private-sector investment
- Supporting Indigenous participation and partnerships in resource development
This builds on our broader plan to modernize Ontario’s Critical Minerals Strategy — cutting red tape, speeding up approvals through our One Project, One Process framework, and ensuring that minerals mined in Ontario are processed right here at home by Ontario workers.
Ontario is one of the most mineral-rich jurisdictions in the world, with over 200 companies exploring more than 300 projects. With continued leadership from our government, we are turning that potential into real jobs, real investment and real growth.
This is how we Protect Ontario — by building a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy that works for workers, families and communities across the province.