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.

On Friday, Canada Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson 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.

The Canadian Arctic encompasses the northernmost 40% of Canada's landmass, extending across the three territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut), as well as the northern regions of Québec and Labrador.

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 km-long all-season road, following the project's referral to the Major Projects Office by Prime Minister Mark Carney in March.

The road will link the proposed deepwater Arctic port at Grays Bay and unlock future project development in zinc and copper.

Hodgson also announced a $5-million investment in Glacies Technologies, which will support a low–emissions alternative to diesel for mine heating and ventilation. This 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 its 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," Hodgson said.