How the ICC is Helping Communities Secure Their Future Through Critical Minerals

Ensuring that Indigenous communities are at the forefront of emerging economic opportunities is a key priority of the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce. For this reason, we are proud to support initiatives like the Manitoba Indigenous Critical Minerals Partnerships Initiative (MICMPI).

PDAC 2024

The initiative, supported by Prairies Economic Development Canada, seeks to empower Indigenous communities by fostering their participation in the growing critical minerals sector. With increasing global demand for these minerals, there is a significant opportunity for Indigenous communities to shape and benefit from the industry while ensuring responsible and sustainable development.

Within Manitoba alone, the provincial government anticipates the demand for critical minerals to double by 2040. These minerals play an important role in the supply of electric vehicles and key technologies, including renewable energy.

One of the key highlights of the ICC’s efforts this year is the strong Indigenous representation at the upcoming Prospectors & Developers Association Conference (PDAC) in Toronto, Ontario, early this March.

PDAC is the world's premier event for mineral exploration and mining, bringing together industry leaders, prospectors, developers, and government officials. This year, the ICC has exceeded its initial target by arranging for 16 community members from seven First Nations to attend — four more than the initial goal of 12 participants.

This initiative provides Indigenous businesses and communities with an invaluable opportunity to connect with industry leaders, forge partnerships, and gain insights into the latest trends and technologies in the mining sector.

Additionally, the ICC has successfully secured a trade show booth for Norway House Cree Nation - Minago, allowing them to showcase their economic potential and engage directly with key stakeholders in the critical minerals industry.

Mining Readiness: Assessing Community Capacity

In addition to PDAC preparations, the ICC is currently involved in Phase 2 of the Mining Readiness Assessment Engagement. This vital project is designed to help 17 preselected First Nations assess their capacity to engage in mining-related economic opportunities.

Through direct community engagement, the ICC facilitates conversations around economic activities, workforce capacity, areas of interest, and the sustainable development of mineral resources near traditional territories.

Throughout this process, the ICC has had the privilege of meeting with Chiefs, Councils, Elders, and community members, gaining a deep understanding of the diverse perspectives, priorities, and aspirations of each Nation.

These discussions emphasize the importance of a tailored approach — one that respects the unique cultural, environmental, and economic considerations of each community.

The success of these initiatives underscores the importance of Indigenous-led economic development. By ensuring that Indigenous voices are included in the conversation around critical minerals and mining, the ICC is not only advancing economic reconciliation but also fostering a future where Indigenous communities have meaningful control over their economic destinies.

Through strategic engagement, collaboration, and advocacy, initiatives like MICMPI are paving the way for Indigenous participation in an industry that will shape Canada’s economic landscape for generations to come. At the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to support these projects, and we look forward to contributing more in the future.