Ontario is now accepting applications to fast-track advanced exploration and mine development under a new One Project One Process framework that targets at least a 50% reduction in provincial review times.
Designated projects will be run by a dedicated Mine Authorization and Permitting Delivery Team led by the Ministry of Energy and Mines as a single point of contact. The ministry says the coordinated approach is designed to give operators and investors predictable timelines and move projects to construction faster.
Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce linked the push to recent US trade actions.
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“With President Trump taking direct aim at our economy, it has never been more important to protect Ontario jobs and build the mines that will power our future,” said Lecce.
Lecce said the current system is outdated and fragmented and has produced delays of up to 15 years for a single mine. The ministry release adds that such delays hold back investment, job creation, and access to critical and strategic minerals including nickel, lithium, and cobalt, and highlighted the Ring of Fire as one of the most valuable untapped mineral regions in the world.
“Our new ‘One Project, One Process’ framework ends the era of unacceptable delays. We are delivering a dedicated service that cuts government review times in half, giving operators and investors the confidence they need to hire, and helps us unlock the full economic potential of our province’s world-class resource sector,” he said.
The ministry said the Crown’s duty to consult remains fully upheld. It described the prior consultation process as confusing and sporadic and said the new model provides a more coordinated, transparent, and timely approach with Indigenous communities while encouraging participation through employment, training, community benefits, and equity partnerships.
The province said applications are open now, with the legislature returning Monday and the first 1P1P designation anticipated within weeks.
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