Nouveau Monde Graphite Secures Major Contracts For Matawinie Mine Project

Nouveau Monde Graphite (NMG) has made significant strides in advancing its Matawinie Mine project, securing major contracts that cover over half of the project’s capital expenditure. These contracts are contingent on a positive final investment decision (FID) and align with estimates from NMG’s updated feasibility study.

The Matawinie Mine, identified by the Canadian Government as a major project of national interest, aims to support economic growth and facilitate an integrated value chain in the country. The mine is expected to play a crucial role in the development of Quebec’s mining sector, creating jobs and stimulating local economies. Pomerleau has been appointed as the construction manager to oversee the construction and commissioning stages of the mine, demonstrating the company’s commitment to ensuring safe and responsible operations.

A major contract has been awarded to Manawan-Fournier, an Atikamekw joint venture between L. Fournier & Fils and the Manawan Atikamekw Band Council, for civil works including networks and industrial structure development. This contract is significant not only because of its size but also because it marks a major step forward in NMG’s efforts to engage with local communities and indigenous businesses.

The awarding of this contract is a testament to NMG’s commitment to diversifying its supply chain and promoting economic development in the region. By working with Manawan-Fournier, NMG is able to tap into the skills and expertise of local businesses while also creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. Beauce Atlas has been assigned the steel structures package, responsible for sourcing, fabricating and installing structural steel components. Its involvement includes engineering and constructability optimisation for the mining facilities.

In addition to these major contracts, NMG has also awarded deals for mechanical equipment and power infrastructure. These contracts are crucial in ensuring that the mine is equipped with the necessary systems to operate safely and efficiently. Engineering for these items is 90% complete, with Metso supplying critical equipment including crushing stations, apron feeders, mills, flotation cells and filter presses.

NMG’s relationship with Metso is significant not only because of the scope of the project but also because it marks a major step forward in the company’s efforts to promote innovation and sustainability. By working with Metso, NMG is able to leverage the latest technology and expertise to deliver a mine that meets the highest standards of environmental sustainability.

The Matawinie Mine project has been identified as a key strategic priority by the Canadian Government, with the government expressing its commitment to supporting the development of this project through various forms of financing and support. The mine’s potential is significant, with estimates suggesting that it could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in economic benefits over the course of its lifespan.

NMG founder, president and CEO Eric Desaulniers stated: “By locking in top-tier partners ahead of FID, we are further de-risking the final financing steps and upcoming project execution. We are planning on expanding this group of like-minded partners who share our values of safety, quality and sustainability, via contracts in concrete, structures, systems and specialised services.”

In June 2025, NMG received letters of interest for more than C$1bn ($731.3m) in project debt financing to fund the company’s phase-two Matawinie Mine and Bécancour Battery Material Plant in Québec, Canada. This represents a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to secure funding for its projects.

The awarding of these contracts demonstrates NMG’s commitment to delivering high-quality results and creating value for its stakeholders. The company’s focus on safety, quality and sustainability is reflected in its relationships with partners like Pomerleau, Manawan-Fournier, Beauce Atlas, and Metso. As NMG continues to advance its Matawinie Mine project, it will be watching the development of key partnerships closely.

The Matawinie Mine project has the potential to play a significant role in shaping Canada’s mining sector, with the potential to create hundreds of jobs and stimulate local economies. By working with a range of partners, NMG is able to tap into the skills and expertise of local businesses while also creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

As the company continues to advance its plans for the mine, it is clear that NMG is committed to delivering high-quality results while also promoting economic development and social responsibility. With major contract awards under its belt, NMG is well-positioned to deliver a mine that meets the highest standards of environmental sustainability and social responsibility.