Defense Metals wins $1.88M grant for Wicheeda buildout

Executive Summary

• Defense Metals Corp. received conditional approval for up to C$1,878,250 in funding from the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) to advance infrastructure planning for its Wicheeda Rare Earth Elements (REE) project.
• The funding is designated for the development of a new 60-kilometre transmission line to deliver up to 35 MW of hydroelectric power from the B.C. Hydro grid to the mine site, aiming to reduce carbon footprint and improve operational efficiency.
• The project scope also includes engineering design for upgrades to a 43-kilometre forest service road, B.C. Hydro interconnection, rail network integration studies, and Indigenous engagement initiatives, scheduled to run from 2026 to 2028.

Key Details

• Funding Amount: Up to C$1,878,250 (approx. C$1.88 million).
• Funding Source: Second call for proposals under the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF), transitioning to the First and Last Mile Fund (FLMF).
• Status: Conditional approval; pending final due diligence.
• Project Location: Wicheeda REE project, northeast of Prince George, B.C., Canada.
• Transmission Line: Development of a new 60-kilometre line to deliver up to 35 megawatts (MW) of electricity from the B.C. Hydro grid directly to the mine site.
• Road Infrastructure: Engineering design for upgrades to the existing 43-kilometre forest service road connecting Highway 97 to the mine site to enhance accessibility, safety, and logistical efficiency.
• Project Timeline: Scheduled to commence in 2026 and conclude in 2028.
• Scope of Work Includes:
  • B.C. Hydro interconnection.
  • Rail network integration studies.
  • Indigenous engagement initiatives to support future construction and operations.
• Strategic Context: The project aims to position Wicheeda as a domestic source of rare-earth elements essential for clean energy technologies, modern transportation systems, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing.
• Reference: The release references the company's 2025 prefeasibility study (PFS) dated April 7, 2025, prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101.

Notable Quotes

• Mark Tory, CEO: "This conditional funding approval represents an important milestone in advancing critical infrastructure planning for the Wicheeda REE project... Securing access to clean low-carbon hydroelectric power and optimizing transportation networks are key components in positioning Wicheeda as a strategically important domestic source of rare-earth elements essential for clean energy technologies and modern transportation systems."
• Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources: "The Wicheeda rare-earth project is a strong example of how strategic infrastructure like clean electricity, modern transportation corridors and stronger regional connections unlocks the full potential of the minerals beneath our feet... Our government is proud to support work that strengthens supply chains, creates good jobs and gets new Canadian minerals to customers at home and abroad."