Prospecting Assistance Grants

Prospecting Assistance Grants offer structured financial support to individuals engaging in mineral exploration, with significant amounts disbursed upfront to aid project execution. The grants are associated with specific modalities to ensure effective utilization and accountability.

• The grant provides up to $6,000 for traditional and grassroots prospecting activities.
• An additional grant of up to $6,000 is available for air support required to access remote exploration sites.
• A maximum total assistance of up to $12,000 is available for projects considered to be at an advanced stage.
• 60% of the grant amount is paid in advance, facilitating the commencement of exploration activities.
• The remaining 40% is disbursed upon the satisfactory completion of the project and submission of an approved final report.
• Annual updates on grant recipients and final payment amounts are provided to ensure transparency and accountability.

Eligibility for this grant is based on specific criteria relevant to the individual's profile and the nature of the prospecting activities.

• The applicant must be an eligible resident of the Province.
• The applicant must be at least 19 years of age.
• The applicant must be involved in independent mineral exploration activities.

Who is eligible?

Eligible expenses

Prospector Assistance Grants are designed to support mineral exploration activities, offering financial aid to enhance the discovery of mineral deposits. These grants specifically focus on supporting exploration and prospecting efforts in various terrains and stages.

• Traditional and grass-roots mineral prospecting activities.
• Geochemical and geophysical surveys essential for prospecting.
• Advanced stage mineral exploration projects.
• Air support for accessing remote prospecting properties.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is specific to individuals conducting mineral exploration in a particular province. Eligibility is determined by the regional focus on mineral development.

• Residents and projects registered within the province where the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology operates.

Prospector Assistance Grants have specific evaluation and selection criteria to determine eligibility for funding. Applicants are evaluated based on their project's potential, feasibility, and alignment with program objectives.

• Project potential for mineral discovery
• Feasibility of the proposed exploration activities
• Alignment with program objectives and provincial mineral development priorities
• Demonstrated need for financial support
• Applicant's experience and qualifications in mineral exploration

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• 60% of the grant is paid in advance, with the remaining amount paid upon satisfactory completion of the project and submission of an approved final report.
• A listing of PA Grant recipients and final payment amounts is updated annually.
• Final payment is contingent upon the submission of a satisfactory final report and adherence to the approved application.
• The Department provides field visits and guidance from program managers and other departmental personnel as additional support to grant recipients.