Manitoba shells out for exploration projects

The government of Manitoba will contribute $1.2 million to exploration projects in the province.

The funding is part of the government’s Mineral Exploration and Assistance Program (MEAP), designed to attract investment to the province’s exploration sector. Since 1995, the province has contributed $6 million to the program.

In light of poor metals prices, “the assistance offered through MEAP takes on a greater importance,” says Mines Minister David Newman. He adds that the province will continue with the program despite an industry slump.

The amount of MEAP funding varies, with regions facing mine closures or those in which exploration is difficult receiving more than those with established mining camps. Major and junior companies are eligible to receive funding for up to 35% of their exploration costs.

Most of the funds are earmarked for projects in southeastern Manitoba, where eight companies will receive more than $650,000 for exploration programs on gold, base metal and one diamond project; three companies will receive more than $167,000 to explore for nickel and copper in the Thompson nickel belt; three companies will receive more than $165,000 to explore gold properties in northwestern Manitoba, near Lynn Lake and Leaf Rapids; four firms will receive $90,000 to explore in east-central Manitoba; two firms will receive $81,000 to explore in the Flin Flon-Snow Lake region; and one firm will receive $22,000 to explore in the province’s south-central region.

The province will announce additional funding later in the year.