Nunavik Mineral Exploration Fund
About the NMEF
The Nunavik Mineral Exploration Fund (NMEF) is a non-profit organization founded in 1998 through a collaboration between the Ministère des Ressources Naturelles du Québec, the Kativik Regional Government, and the Kativik Local Development Council. Its primary purpose is to support mineral exploration and promote economic development in the Kativik region. Over the years, the NMEF has secured stable funding through agreements with these partners, including a significant increase in annual contributions with the inclusion of Makivik Corporation as a partner in 2011. The latest agreement boosts the annual funding to $350,000 for the period of 2019-2022.
Objectives and Mandates
The NMEF exists to achieve several concrete objectives in support of Nunavik’s mineral resource sector:
- Maintain or increase Inuit employment in mineral exploration by encouraging specialized training for Inuit workers.
- Promote the inclusion of Inuit people in exploration projects throughout the Kativik territory.
- Enhance knowledge and awareness of mineral exploration and mining within Inuit communities, especially among young people.
- Support start-up Inuit enterprises operating within the mineral resources sector.
- Facilitate communication and social acceptability between Inuit communities and mining companies active in the region.
Programs and Coverage
The NMEF manages the Aboriginal Mining Funding Assistance Program and participates in the Agreement on Mineral Resource Development in the Kativik Territory (2022-2025). These initiatives target the area defined by the Act respecting Northern Villages and the Kativik Regional Government. The programs contribute to the sustainable development of the mining sector by supporting prospecting activities, fostering knowledge gathering, and encouraging the active role of Inuit organizations in the industry.
Training and Community Engagement
A key aspect of the NMEF’s work is prospecting training. By investing in the education of Inuit individuals, especially youth, the Fund helps build a specialized workforce ready to participate in and benefit from mineral exploration. Community outreach and engagement are essential, ensuring clear communication and greater social acceptance of mining projects in the region.