A Look at Canada’s $1.5 Billion Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF)

Critical minerals are the backbone of Canada’s transition to a clean energy economy. These minerals (including lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements) are essential components in electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy systems, and advanced manufacturing.  

“Canada is uniquely positioned to be a global leader in critical minerals, providing the resources needed for a net-zero economy while creating good-paying jobs for Canadians.” 
– Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources 

Recognizing this potential, the Government of Canada has launched the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF), a $1.5 billion federal initiative aimed at accelerating the development of strategic infrastructure that supports mineral production and supply chain resilience.  

 

Funding Snapshot: Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) 

The CMIF provides government funding support to eligible projects that will directly contribute to the expansion of critical minerals production and associated infrastructure. 

Funding Amount: 

• Up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $50 million for non-governmental applicants. 
• Up to 75% of eligible costs for Arctic, Northern, and Indigenous-led projects. 
• Up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $100 million for provincial and territorial governments. 
• Most contributions will be non-repayable, except for projects directly enabling profit generation, which will be conditionally repayable. 

Eligible Applicants: 

The CMIF funding program is open to a broad range of applicants, including: 

• Provinces and territories 
• Private businesses 
• Not-for-profit organizations 
• Indigenous groups 

Eligible Project Streams: 

The CMIF funding program is structured into two main streams, designed to accommodate different stages of project development: 

1. Preconstruction Stream – This stream supports activities required to advance projects to a shovel-ready state, such as feasibility studies, Indigenous engagement, environmental assessments, and engineering work. 

• EOI deadline: April 30, 2025 
• Application deadline: June 27, 2025 

2. Shovel-Ready Stream – This stream funds projects that are construction-ready and covers infrastructure deployment, construction, rehabilitation, and capacity-building. 

• EOI deadline: January 5, 2026 
• Application deadline: March 4, 2026 

Eligible Projects: 

CMIF projects must fall into one of the following two categories: 

• Clean Energy Infrastructure: This includes mine-site grid connections, renewable energy deployment, battery storage, and electric vehicle (EV) charging for mining operations. 
• Transportation Infrastructure: This covers roads, rail, and marine transportation directly supporting critical minerals development and connecting mining operations to processing facilities and markets. 

Advancing Sustainability and Indigenous Partnerships 

The CMIF funding program aims to emphasize sustainability, emissions reduction, and Indigenous participation. Canada is committed to fostering partnerships with Indigenous communities to ensure they play a key role in the development and benefits of critical minerals infrastructure. 

Program Priorities: 

• Supporting Clean Energy and Sustainability: Investing in renewable energy solutions and grid connectivity to reduce emissions associated with mining and minerals production 
• Enhancing Economic Growth: Strengthening Canada’s position as a global leader in critical minerals and attracting foreign investment 
• Indigenous Reconciliation and Economic Participation: Promoting Indigenous-led projects, encouraging capacity-building initiatives, and fostering long-term partnerships 

“Investing in critical minerals infrastructure ensures Canada remains a competitive player in the global energy transition while supporting Indigenous economic empowerment.”  
– Pierre Gratton, President of the Mining Association of Canada   

Other Government Funding for Critical Minerals 

The CMIF program is one of several government funding programs aimed at bolstering Canada’s natural resource sector. Businesses and organizations looking for additional financial support can explore the following programs: 

Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) – Net Zero Accelerator 

• Provides large-scale funding for projects that advance Canada’s net-zero goals, including battery supply chains and critical minerals processing 

Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program 

• Supports projects that reduce reliance on diesel and integrate clean energy solutions in remote areas, including mining operations. 

To explore more government grants and funding programs, visit our Government Funding Directory. 

A Critical Opportunity for Growth 

The Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) is a strategic investment that aims to enable Canada to remain at the forefront of the global critical minerals industry. By funding essential infrastructure in clean energy and transportation, the government is laying the groundwork for sustainable and competitive minerals supply chain. 

With the preconstruction stream’s EOI deadline approaching on April 30, 2025, now is the time for eligible organizations to explore how this funding can support their projects. 

For full guidance on applying for government grants, contact our team of funding experts to maximize your funding potential.