C$13.5M Federal Boost Advances Winsome’s Trans-Atikh Lithium Infrastructure

Federal Funding Boosts Critical Minerals Infrastructure

Winsome Resources Limited (ASX, WR1) has taken a significant step forward in developing its flagship Adina Lithium Project in Quebec by partnering with Eskan Consulting Group to advance the Trans-Atikh Project. Eskan recently secured up to C$13.5 million in non-repayable funding from Natural Resources Canada under the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund, earmarked for Stage 1 of this vital infrastructure initiative.

This initial phase focuses on consultation with local communities, environmental and social impact studies, engineering design, and the construction of a winter road extending north from the existing Route 167 highway at the Renard Operation. The road will provide critical access to rail and port infrastructure, enhancing logistics for the region’s burgeoning critical minerals sector.

Indigenous-Led Development and Community Benefits

The collaboration between Winsome’s subsidiary Miyunaakun Lithium Inc and Eskan formalises a partnership that prioritises Indigenous leadership and community involvement. The Trans-Atikh Project is designed to generate substantial Cree employment and contracting opportunities, ensuring that economic benefits flow directly to local communities in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region.

Winsome’s Managing Director, Chris Evans, highlighted the transformative nature of the agreement, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous-led infrastructure development in unlocking the full potential of Quebec’s critical minerals resources. The project aims not only to reduce future infrastructure costs for Winsome’s lithium operations but also to establish a multi-modal transport corridor that will serve the wider mining sector.

Strategic Implications for Winsome’s Lithium Ambitions

With a Mineral Resource of 78 million tonnes at 1.15% lithium oxide, the Adina Lithium Project is positioned as a tier-one asset in a stable mining jurisdiction. The Trans-Atikh Project’s infrastructure will be pivotal in supporting the long-term development and operational efficiency of this resource, potentially lowering logistics costs and improving supply chain reliability.

Under the Collaboration Agreement, Miyunaakun will contribute up to 25% of the Stage 1 budget through a combination of cash and in-kind contributions, subject to milestone conditions. This arrangement establishes a joint governance framework to oversee project delivery, reflecting a shared commitment to transparency and accountability.

Looking Ahead

While Stage 1 lays the groundwork, the project’s progression to a “shovel ready” status will depend on regulatory approvals and further funding phases. The successful execution of this infrastructure project could serve as a blueprint for Indigenous partnership models in resource development, with broad implications for Quebec’s critical minerals landscape.