Other
Critical One Energy Receives Ontario Government Funding Grant for Howells Lake Antimony-Gold Project Exploration Work

CRTL · Price
Executive Summary
- Critical One Energy Inc. received official approval from the Ontario Government for initial funding under the Ontario Junior Exploration Program (OJEP) 2025‑2026 intake to support its Howells Lake Antimony‑Gold Project.
- The grant will fund accelerated drilling and exploration activities slated to begin in spring 2026, enhancing the company’s ability to develop one of Canada’s largest known undeveloped antimony systems.
- Historical data indicate a historic resource of 1.7 million tonnes at 1.4% Sb with high‑grade gold intersections, underscoring the project’s strategic importance for critical mineral supply chains.
Key Details
- Grant Provider: Ontario Ministry of Mines (Ontario Junior Exploration Program – OJEP).
- Funding Scope: Initial funding under the 2025‑2026 intake; specific dollar amount not disclosed.
- Project Targeted: Howells Lake Antimony‑Gold Project, ~120 km west of the Ring of Fire road corridor, Thunder Bay Mining District, Ontario.
- Exploration Focus: Identification and evaluation of high‑potential sites for antimony, gold, and other critical minerals; aligns with provincial EV and renewable energy supply‑chain goals.
- Planned Activities: Accelerated drilling program to commence in spring 2026, with preliminary results expected shortly thereafter.
- Historical Resource Estimate: 1.7 million tonnes at 1.4% antimony (Sb) with associated gold; historic drill intercepts include up to 75% Sb and >14 g/t Au, plus intervals such as 5.37% Sb over 8.35 m.
- Land Package: Approximately 25,000 ha covering a 30 km strike within a proven greenstone belt.
- Qualified Person (QP): Matthew Trenkler, P.Geo., Chief Geological Officer – reviewed and approved technical content; notes that historical data are not verified under current NI 43‑101 standards and resource estimate is not current.
- Strategic Significance: Supports domestic critical mineral supply chain development for electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, and advanced manufacturing.
Notable Quotes
“This approval marks a significant milestone for Critical One as we continue to push the boundaries of sustainable resource development of antimony and other critical metals,” – Duane Parnham, Founder, Executive Chairman & CEO.
The release contains forward‑looking statements regarding anticipated drilling activities and project outcomes.
More from Critical One Energy Inc.
Jun 16, 2026 · 17:01