Ontario Launches $500 Million Critical Minerals Processing Fund

Accelerating Ontario’s Critical Minerals Supply Chain Through Local Processing, Innovation, and Strategic Investment

Ontario has introduced the Critical Minerals Processing Fund (CMPF), a $500 million funding program aimed at expanding the province’s ability to process and refine critical minerals locally. Delivered through Invest Ontario, the fund is a key pillar of the province’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic supply chains and position Ontario as a global leader in clean technology and advanced manufacturing.

Program Overview

The CMPF supports projects that develop, expand, or modernize critical minerals processing capabilities within Ontario. By increasing local processing capacity, the program seeks to reduce reliance on foreign processing, attract private investment, and create high-quality jobs across strategic industries.

Critical minerals play a central role in sectors such as electric vehicle and battery manufacturing, defence, aerospace, and advanced technology. Strengthening Ontario’s processing infrastructure is essential to supporting long-term economic growth and innovation in these areas.

Eligible Activities

Funded projects may include:

• Construction of new critical minerals processing facilities

• Expansion or modernization of existing processing operations

• Facility upgrades and advanced technology adoption

• Initiatives that strengthen Ontario’s critical minerals supply chain

Projects focused on innovation, R&D, and productivity improvements are strongly aligned with program objectives.

Eligible Sectors

The program targets organizations operating in:

• Mining and quarrying

• Clean technology

• Automotive and advanced manufacturing

• Professional, scientific, and technical services related to processing and innovation

Applicants do not need to be exporters or part of a global supply chain to qualify.

How GrantMatch Can Help

Navigating large-scale funding programs like the CMPF requires clear project alignment, strong economic justification, and a well-structured application. GrantMatch works with organizations across Ontario to:

• Assess eligibility and strategic fit

• Define fundable project scopes

• Position projects against provincial priorities

• Manage the application process from start to finish

With applications now open, early planning is critical.

Contact GrantMatch today to explore how the Critical Minerals Processing Fund can support your next investment in Ontario’s critical minerals ecosystem