North American Niobium and Critical Minerals Corp. Submits ATI Application for Seigneurie Project in Quebec, Advancing Path to Diamond Drilling

Executive Summary

• North American Niobium submitted its initial Authorization for Impact‑Causing Exploration Work (ATI) application to Québec’s MRNF for the Seigneurie Project, a prerequisite for any future diamond drilling.
• The ATI review is expected to take roughly three months, though timing may vary due to stakeholder engagement with eight identified groups, including the Innu of Essipit and local landowners.
• CFO Kelvin Lee resigned; Steven Nguyen was appointed as his successor effective immediately.

Key Details

• ATI Application: Initial submission to Québec’s Ministère des Ressources naturelles et des Forêts (MRNF) for the 100 % owned Seigneurie Project in Longue‑Rive, Québec.
• Stakeholder Notification: Relevant parties—including the First Nation Council of the Innus of Essipit, the Municipality of Longue‑Rive, and private landowners—have been notified of proposed drilling locations.
• Comments Received: Stakeholders provided feedback on access logistics (e.g., suggested drill‑rig trail routes); the company will incorporate these into planning.
• Review Timeline: MRNF review estimated at ~3 months, but actual timing uncertain due to eight stakeholder groups and the iterative nature of the ATI process.
• Future Work Contingency: Even if an ATI is granted, private access agreements and continued stakeholder engagement remain required before any impact‑causing exploration (including diamond drilling) can commence.
• Management Change: Kelvin Lee resigned as Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary, and Director; Steven Nguyen appointed to those roles effective immediately.

Notable Quotes

“Establishing constructive, positive relationships with stakeholders is now a requirement under Québec’s ATI permitting framework, and it takes time,” said Murray Nye, CEO. “We believe this is the new reality in Québec…people were glad to be consulted, and many, if not all, want to see responsible projects succeed when they are approached with transparency and respect.”