NR-New Brunswick Prospectors Assistance Program (NBPAP)

This document is based on information from the Department of Natural Resources, February 2008.

The New Brunswick Prospectors Assistance Program (NBPAP) is a financial assistance program offered by Minerals, Policy and Planning Division of the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources. The program is for prospectors searching for metallic or industrial minerals (except aggregates) in the Province, who can receive up to:

• a maximum of $5,000 if the prospector does not have mineral claims at the time of application;
• a maximum of $15,000 if the prospector has existing mineral claims at the time of application. 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for NBPAP, you must have:

• A valid New Brunswick prospector’s licence.
• Fulfilled all commitments for any previous grants from the Division.

You must not have:

• A concurrent grant under the New Brunswick Junior Mining Assistance Program.

Summary

To apply for a NBPAP grant, download the application form  or contact the NBPAP Coordinator. Complete the application form, including your:

• Contact information
• Prospecting experience
• Work location
• Work proposal

Submit the completed application form to the NBPAP Coordinator as listed below.

NBPAP applications are evaluated by a review committee, consisting of representatives from the Geological Study Branch and the mineral industry. The Committee evaluates applications based upon:

• the quality and merit of the proposal;
• the potential of the work performed to enhance the level of interest in the property; and
• the proponent's ability to complete the project.

The committee receives and evaluates applications until the year's budget has been allocated.

Once an application has been approved, the applicant will receive:

• A first installment cheque equal to 35% of the total grant;
• A second installment of 35% upon receipt of the following information:
  • a statement of eligible costs incurred and paid by the recipient (these costs must equal 35% of total project funding);
  • an interim progress report describing project activities.
• A final installment cheque upon submission of the following information:
  • A daily travel log and map(s) showing work area(s);
  • Sample location map (if claiming analyses) and analytical results;
  • Data from other surveys (e.g., geophysical);
  • A statement of eligible costs incurred and paid by the recipient (these costs must equal 100% of total project funding); and
  • An assessment-quality report if the prospecting work is done on mineral claims.

For more information on the NBPAP, application form, claiming expenses, report requirements and more, call 506-432-2010 or visit the Web site :  http://www.gnb.ca/0078/minerals/NBPAP-e.asp.

New Brunswick Contact(s):
Mr. Maurice Mazerolle
Exploration Assistance Program Coordinator
Geological Surveys Branch
Department of Natural Resources
207 Picadilly Road
P.O. Box 5040
Sussex, New Brunswick  E4E 5L2
Telephone: 506-432-2010
Fax: 506-432-2060
E-mail: maurice.mazerolle@gnb.ca