Canada Nickel Strategic Board Changes & Government Support Throughout Advancing Crawford Project

• Canada Nickel has initiated the submission of its federal Impact Statement for the Crawford Nickel Sulphide Project, marking a crucial step toward securing permits targeted for 2025.
• The Government of Canada has conditionally approved a C$4.38 million contribution through the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund to support pre-implementation studies for electrical infrastructure.
• The company has strengthened its board with the appointment of Julian Ovens, bringing valuable experience from Rio Tinto, BHP, and senior Canadian government roles.
• The Crawford Project is positioned to create over 1,500 high-paying jobs and potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 60% compared to diesel-powered operations.
• Pre-implementation studies for the project's electrical infrastructure began in April 2024 and are expected to be completed by June 2025, with a total estimated cost of C$9.6 million.

Crawford Nickel Project Updates

Canada Nickel Company Inc. (TSXV:CNC) is emerging as a key player in the next generation of nickel-sulphide projects, strategically positioned to meet the growing demand from electric vehicle and stainless steel markets. The company's flagship Crawford Nickel Sulphide Project, located in the heart of the prolific Timmins-Cochrane mining camp, represents a 100% owned asset in a low political risk jurisdiction. With its commitment to net-zero carbon production through trademarked processes (NetZero NickelTM, NetZero CobaltTM, and NetZero IronTM), Canada Nickel offers investors exposure to both the critical minerals sector and the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

Federal Impact Statement Progress

In a significant development, Canada Nickel began submitting its federal Impact Statement for the Crawford Project. This comprehensive document includes critical baseline data and analysis of environmental, social, and economic effects, demonstrating the company's commitment to responsible mining practices. The submission process, expected to complete within six weeks, reflects extensive consultations with Indigenous Nations, local communities, government agencies, and key stakeholders. This milestone positions the company to secure necessary permits in 2025, aligning with its strategic timeline.

Government Funding & Infrastructure Development

Canada Nickel announced a conditional C$4.38 million contribution from Natural Resources Canada's Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF). This funding represents government confidence in the project and will support ongoing pre-construction and project development activities, particularly focusing on electrical infrastructure. The total cost of these studies is estimated at C$9.6 million, with Canada Nickel contributing the remaining C$5.2 million.

The infrastructure studies carry significant environmental implications:

• Potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 60% compared to traditional diesel-powered operations
• Integration with Ontario's clean electricity grid
• Inclusion of permanent carbon storage components
• Potential to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions over the project's lifetime

Strategic Board Appointment

The company strengthened its governance structure with the appointment of Julian Ovens to its Board of Directors. Ovens brings valuable expertise through his senior management experience with Rio Tinto and BHP, high-level roles in the Canadian government, including Chief of Staff positions, and current partnership at Crestview Strategy and directorship at Canadian Commercial Corporation.

This appointment coincides with Mike Cox's transition from board director to leading the company's wholly owned downstream subsidiary, NetZero Metals Inc., ensuring continued operational expertise in key areas.

Infrastructure Investment & Timeline

The Crawford Project represents a significant economic opportunity:

• Creation of over 1,500 high-paying jobs
• Potential for regional economic growth
• Strategic positioning in the critical minerals supply chain
• Support for Canada's 2050 net-zero emissions target

On the infrastructure front, Canada Nickel has initiated comprehensive pre-implementation studies focusing on essential electrical infrastructure development. These studies, which commenced in April 2024, represent a total investment of C$9.6 million, with the Government of Canada contributing C$4.38 million through the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund and the company providing the remaining C$5.2 million. The studies are progressing on schedule toward their June 2025 completion target, marking a crucial preparatory phase that will inform the anticipated construction decision later that year. This strategic approach to infrastructure planning demonstrates the company's commitment to thorough project development while maintaining momentum toward production goals.

Environmental & Sustainability Initiatives

Canada Nickel has established itself as a leader in environmental stewardship within the mining sector, implementing a comprehensive approach to sustainable resource development. The company's environmental strategy centers on the development of innovative net-zero carbon production processes, complemented by the integration of clean electricity infrastructure. A standout feature of their environmental commitment is the incorporation of permanent carbon storage capabilities at the Crawford Project, which aligns perfectly with Canada's broader environmental objectives. Through these initiatives, the company is positioned to achieve significant greenhouse gas emission reductions, potentially setting new standards for environmentally conscious mining operations.

Conclusion

Canada Nickel presents a compelling investment opportunity in the critical minerals sector, backed by several key factors:

• Strategic Asset: The Crawford Project represents a significant nickel sulphide resource in a stable jurisdiction, with clear development milestones toward production.
• Government Support: The recent CMIF funding demonstrates federal confidence in the project and reduces development risk.
• Environmental Leadership: The company's commitment to net-zero production aligns with global sustainability trends and may command premium pricing in the market.
• Strong Governance: The addition of Julian Ovens strengthens the board with relevant industry and government experience.
• Clear Timeline: With permitting targeted for 2025 and infrastructure studies underway, investors have visible development milestones to monitor progress.

Investors should note that while the company has made significant progress, mining development projects carry inherent risks, including potential delays, cost overruns, and market fluctuations. However, the combination of government support, environmental initiatives, and strategic positioning in the critical minerals sector provides multiple potential catalysts for value creation.

In terms of market positioning, Canada Nickel stands at the intersection of several powerful growth drivers. The company is well-positioned to meet the surging demand for nickel, particularly from the rapidly expanding electric vehicle sector and the traditional stainless steel market. This market opportunity is further enhanced by the growing global emphasis on environmentally responsible mining practices, which aligns with the company's sustainable development approach. Additionally, Canada Nickel's role in developing critical minerals supply chains has garnered substantial government support, reflecting the strategic importance of their operations. This combination of market demand, environmental credentials, and government backing creates a robust foundation for sustained growth and market leadership.