The federal government is continuing to invest in Canada’s critical minerals sector, announcing the first agreement under its new $2-billion Canada Critical Minerals Accelerator.

The program is designed to speed up mining and processing projects that support Canada’s economy, national security and clean energy transition.

The announcement has relevance for northern Manitoba, where nickel remains a key industry.

Earlier this year, the Canada Growth Fund committed up to US$85 million toward the acquisition and revitalization of the Thompson Mine Complex as part of a broader investment of up to US$200 million.

The project is expected to help secure the future of one of Canada’s largest underground nickel mining operations, which employs nearly 700 people. Nickel is one of Canada’s designated critical minerals.