February 19, 2026 – Sudbury, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
In a rapidly changing world, Canada’s Government is focused on what we can control; building a stronger more resilient Canada. Through strategic investments that help us empower Canadians, communities and industries that drive our economy forward, including Northern Ontario’s globally recognized mining innovation sector.
That is why today, Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury announced that FedNor is investing $1,560,000 to help NORCAT and LoopX advance two strategic initiatives designed to support innovation and growth in the mining sector, while creating good jobs. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
Through FedNor’s Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation Fund (REGI), NORCAT will receive $1,080,000 to complete phase III of its Underground Centre expansion. This final phase represents the completion of a 550 square-meter space with state-of-the-art shop and mechanic facilities, equipment and tools, offices and meeting rooms, and learning spaces. This expansion builds on the recently completed 1,100-square-meter facility in Onaping Falls, supporting NORCAT’s continued role as a global one-stop shop in mining technology and innovation.
Once complete, this project is expected to create over 15 new jobs and to support NORCAT’s capacity to serve over 25 unique technology clients per year. In addition, over 10 mining technology businesses will be created, expanded, or modernized because of access to the new infrastructure, tools, and equipment this initiative will help provide.
As part of today’s announcement, LoopX will receive $480,000 to advance the development and commercialization of its generative AI-powered analytics system. This technology will enable safer, more efficient mining operations by improving real-time decision-making and operational awareness. It will also support new jobs, specialized equipment, supplies, and intellectual property protection, helping bring the technology closer to market.
[More]
