Global demand for critical minerals is surging — driven by clean energy, electric vehicles, and high-tech innovation. Nova Scotia is uniquely positioned to meet this demand and become a key player in the evolving global supply chain.
Nova Scotia boasts a rich mining history, with government support serving as a cornerstone for sustainable natural resource development and industry growth. We are unlocking the full potential of our mineral assets through forward-looking policies, streamlined regulatory processes, and strategic support initiatives.
Combine that with our experienced workforce, globally connected logistics infrastructure, investment-ready mining projects, and strong commitment to Indigenous and community engagement, and it’s clear why Nova Scotia checks every box for mining success.
Rich in Critical Minerals
Nova Scotia is home to abundant deposits of lithium, rare earth elements, copper, and manganese, essential for powering the future of clean energy and technology. Our Critical Minerals Strategy actively supports exploration and development, unearthing new opportunities across the province.
Nova Scotia has identified 20 priority critical minerals based on four key criteria:
• Strong exploration potential
• Importance to achieving carbon-reduction goals
• Global supply and demand imbalance
• Strategic economic opportunity for the province
Direct Access to Global Markets
Situated on major global shipping routes, Nova Scotia offers deepwater ports, a robust logistics network, and proximity to the U.S. and Europe. This strategic location ensures efficient transport of minerals to key international markets.
Skilled Workforce
Our workforce includes experts in geology, mining engineering, and environmental sustainability. Institutions like Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Community College deliver specialized training to meet the needs of the mining sector.
Supportive Business Environment
With federal and provincial incentives, including the Mineral Resources Development Fund, Nova Scotia supports investment in mineral exploration and development. Businesses benefit from tax incentives, funding programs, and a collaborative regulatory environment.
Nova Scotia recognizes that government support plays a vital role in sustainable natural resource development and industry growth. The Province is unlocking the full potential of its mineral assets through forward-looking policies, streamlined regulations, and strategic investment supports.
This includes launching NovaMINE, a one-stop portal to streamline mine permitting. NovaMINE allows businesses and individuals involved in any phase of exploration in Nova Scotia to check the status of current licences, permits and approvals, and to learn about regulatory requirements.
Commitment to Sustainability
Nova Scotia is dedicated to responsible resource development, with rigorous environmental standards and a strong focus on Indigenous partnerships and community engagement. Sustainability is central to how we mine and manage our resources.
Nova Scotia is entering a new era of opportunity, unlocking the full potential of its rich natural resources. We’re focusing on critical minerals that power the global clean energy transition and drive sustainable growth across Canada and beyond.
Together, these initiatives signal a defining moment for Nova Scotia’s mining sector, where a supportive business climate, forward-looking policies, and world-class mineral potential are creating unprecedented opportunities for investors and communities alike.
