By Veronica Thibault
The Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC) was proud to participate in the Central Canada Mineral Exploration Convention 2024 (CCMEC) earlier this week, where record attendance of 800 delegates highlighted Manitoba's growing prominence in the global mining sector. In a historic first, both keynote presentations featured Indigenous speakers signaling positive shifts in industry engagement. We extend our congratulations to keynote speakers Glenn Nolan (VP, Indigenous Enterprises, Wyloo Ring of Fire) and Max Fineday (CEO, Partner, Warshield) who delivered powerful and insightful presentations.
The convention demonstrated encouraging progress in Indigenous-corporate relationships, with mining companies increasingly recognizing First Nations as strategic partners rather than passive stakeholders. We observed a growing understanding that meaningful partnership extends beyond financial compensation to include workforce development, community engagement, and long-term economic opportunities.
Landmark Achievements: First Nation Mine Ownership and New Provincial Initiatives
This progress was further exemplified by Chief Larson Anderson and Norway House Cree Nations' landmark achievement in acquiring the rights to the proposed Minago nickel mine, becoming the only First Nation in Canada to own 100% of a mineral project. Additionally, the Province made two significant announcements that will advance economic reconciliation and development for First Nations communities in Manitoba interested in exploring mining on their traditional lands.
The Province announced a new intake of up to $2 million in funding through the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF). Administered through the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, the MMDF supports economic development and mining projects of up to $300,000 per project that create Indigenous partnerships, increase local employment, and stimulate investment in northern Manitoba. Since 2020, $14.7 million has been provided to 90 projects, leveraging over $128 million in private sector capital, generating over 660 jobs and 128 community and Indigenous partnerships.
Furthermore, the Manitoba government released its Securing Our Critical Mineral Future strategy, aimed at expediting critical minerals projects while respecting the environment and forming strong Indigenous partnerships. As Minister Ian Bushie noted, "Indigenous and northern communities can be the backbone to a successful mining sector, setting those communities and the Manitoba economy on the best path forward."
Building a Sustainable Future Through Partnership
As the mining sector is more likely to offer intergenerational projects in Manitoba, ICC stands ready to support organizations in developing sustainable partnerships. The strong focus on Indigenous engagement at CCMEC 2024, coupled with plans for expanded Indigenous content next year, reflects the industry's commitment to building lasting, mutually beneficial relationships with First Nations communities.
We would like to acknowledge our ICC members who participated in the convention: Hudbay, Communities Economic Development Fund (CEDF), Platinum Diamond Drilling, Stantec, and University College of the North.
