Manitoba Mine Revival: Indigenous Partnership Drives Gold Project's Future

By Thomas Moore

November 10, 2025

BISSET, MB – The echoes of a bygone era are resonating once more in the heart of Manitoba’s mining country. The True North Gold Project, a historically significant mine near Bissett, is gearing up for a revival, bolstered by a $300,000 grant from the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF) and, crucially, a collaborative partnership with the Hollow Water and Black River First Nations. This isn’t just about extracting gold; it represents a potential blueprint for responsible resource development, one that prioritizes community engagement and sustainable practices.

1911 Gold Corporation, the company spearheading the project, announced the funding this week, earmarked for an ambitious 9,000-meter drilling program designed to refine resource estimates and prepare for bulk sample mining in 2026. But beneath the technical details lies a story of economic revitalization, Indigenous self-determination, and a calculated approach to de-risking a project decades in the making.

A History Reawakened

The True North mine boasts a rich, albeit complex, history. Originally operational in the mid-20th century, it yielded significant gold production before falling into dormancy. Attempts to revive the project in the past have stalled, hampered by logistical challenges, fluctuating gold prices, and, crucially, a lack of meaningful engagement with local Indigenous communities.

“There’s a long memory in this region,” explains a local economic development officer who requested anonymity. “Past projects weren’t always done with the community, but to the community. This time, it feels different.”

1911 Gold appears to be taking a different tack. The company’s strategy revolves around building a genuine partnership with the Hollow Water and Black River First Nations, offering employment opportunities, revenue sharing agreements, and a seat at the table in decision-making processes.

Beyond the Drill Bit: A Model for Indigenous Engagement

The MMDF grant isn’t simply a financial injection; it’s a validation of this collaborative approach. “The MMDF prioritizes projects that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and meaningful Indigenous participation,” says a spokesperson from the Manitoba government. “1911 Gold’s commitment to partnering with the Hollow Water and Black River First Nations was a key factor in our decision.”

The partnership extends beyond simple consultations. 1911 Gold has established a joint working group with representatives from both First Nations to oversee environmental monitoring, cultural heritage preservation, and workforce training programs.

“We want to ensure that this project benefits our community for generations to come,” says an Indigenous leader involved in the partnership, who also requested anonymity. “It’s not just about jobs; it’s about reclaiming our traditional knowledge, protecting our land, and building a sustainable future for our people.”

De-Risking the Project: A Calculated Approach
The $300,000 grant is a relatively modest investment, but it’s strategically targeted. The drilling program aims to refine the existing resource estimate of 1.1 million ounces of gold at the True North mine, as well as to assess the potential for expansion. This data will be crucial in attracting further investment and securing financing for the larger-scale bulk sample mining operation planned for 2026.

1911 Gold is also employing a phased approach, starting with a relatively low-capital bulk sample to test the ore processing methods and refine the mining plan. This minimizes risk and allows the company to demonstrate the project's viability before committing to a full-scale operation.

“The company’s financial strategy is sound,” explains a mining analyst who requested anonymity. “They are being prudent in their approach, focusing on de-risking the project and building a solid foundation for future growth.”

1911 Gold’s broader portfolio, encompassing other properties across Manitoba and beyond, totals 1.5 million ounces of gold in reserves and resources. A recent financing round of approximately C$17.5 million demonstrates investor confidence in the company's long-term vision.

A Potential Catalyst for Economic Revitalization
The revival of the True North mine could have a significant ripple effect on the local economy. The project is expected to create approximately 100 direct jobs during the construction and operation phases, as well as hundreds of indirect jobs in the supply chain. The increased economic activity could also boost local businesses and generate tax revenues for the province.

However, some concerns remain. The mining industry is inherently cyclical, and gold prices can be volatile. Environmental concerns are also paramount, and the company must demonstrate a commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

“We need to ensure that this project is done sustainably, protecting our water resources and minimizing the impact on the environment,” says a local environmental advocate. “Transparency and accountability are crucial.”

The True North project isn't just about extracting gold; it’s about building a more sustainable and equitable future for the region. By prioritizing Indigenous partnership, responsible environmental practices, and economic diversification, 1911 Gold has the potential to transform a historic mine into a catalyst for positive change. The coming months and years will be critical in determining whether this ambitious vision can be realized, but the initial signs are promising. The revival of the True North mine could serve as a model for responsible resource development, demonstrating that economic prosperity and Indigenous self-determination can go hand in hand.