Three mining companies have established a $6.6 million education and skills development fund for 24 First Nations in northwestern Ontario, creating new pathways for career advancement and cultural learning over the next decade.
First Nation LP, Newmont Corporation, and Orla Mining Ltd. announced the fund will be administered by Opiikapawiin Services LP, a service organization fully owned by the 24 First Nations. Orla Mining owns and operates the Musselwhite Mine in northwestern Ontario.
Fund supports range of training programs
The investment will support career development, trades training, mentorship, land-based learning, literacy, STEM initiatives, scholarships, and access to digital tools and technology. The $6.6 million will be distributed over 10 years.
“This fund builds on a long-standing partnership that shows what is possible when we work together with a shared goal of seeing communities succeed,” said Eliezar McKay, FNLP chair. “It ensures that our youths today have the opportunity to gain the education, training, and knowledge needed for them to take charge of building a bright and prosperous future.”
Initiative builds on power project partnership
The fund originates from a promissory note established for pre-development costs in the Wataynikaneyap Power project. Rather than seeking payment, Newmont and Orla agreed to redirect those funds into the new charitable organization.
The 24 First Nations equally own 51 per cent of Wataynikaneyap Power, along with Fortis Inc. and other private investors. Goldcorp, now part of Newmont, provided early funding that helped develop the transmission project, which now delivers cleaner, more reliable electricity to remote First Nations communities, replacing diesel generation.
“It is important for Orla to support and contribute to the momentum and priorities established by the member Nations of FNLP,” said Silvana Costa, chief sustainability officer at Orla Mining. “We are proud to be building on these historic partnerships with Indigenous communities in Northern Ontario.”
Newmont maintains commitment after divestment
Newmont has since divested its Ontario assets but chose to honour its regional commitments through the education fund.
“Although Newmont has since divested our assets in Ontario, our commitment to lasting, positive impact remains,” said David Thornton, managing director at Newmont Americas. “This investment honours the spirit of partnership that shaped our time in the region.”
The Musselwhite Mine has operated for over 25 years and produced more than 6 million ounces of gold. First Nation LP was established in 2015 to manage the participating First Nations’ interest in Wataynikaneyap Power.
