The Government of Yukon is investing an additional $1.1 million to the Yukon Mineral Exploration Program, making a total of $2.5 million available for distribution to successful applicants for the 2020 field season.
The Yukon Mineral Exploration Program is a funding program designed to support individuals and companies exploring for hard-rock and placer occurrences by shouldering a portion of the risk capital required to explore.
The exploration projects funded by the Yukon Mineral Exploration Program are a fundamental step in the early-stage discovery of mineral deposits that can lead to advanced exploration projects and mine development.
With this $2.5 million investment by the Government of Yukon the grant recipients will be able to invest more than $8 million in Yukon this season, which will support the economies of Yukon communities.
Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Ranj Pillai, The Yukon Mineral Exploration Program is key to helping proponents leverage private investment in early stage exploration projects. Our increased investment marks the most funding that has ever been made available through this program in a year when we've seen a record number of applicants. Our government is proud to support local businesses and create jobs for Yukoners at a time when the economy has been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
All companies and individuals exploring in Yukon are required to comply with COVID-19 related orders that are in place and to follow guidelines that have been established, including the guidelines for travel within Yukon.