Michigan Strategic Fund Approves $50 Million for Copperwood Mine

The Michigan Strategic Fund approved approximately $50 million in state grants on Tuesday to support site readiness for the proposed Copperwood Mine in Gogebic County. The board voted 7-2 to allocate $44.9 million to Highland Copper Inc. (also identified as Copperwood Resources Inc.) and $5 million to the Gogebic County Road Commission for road, utility, and telecommunications infrastructure in Wakefield Township.

The project represents a $425 million capital investment and aims to create over 380 jobs, marking the first mine in the region since 1955. Highland Copper CEO Barry O'Shea testified that the grants are essential, noting that without them, the project's financial viability would be significantly more difficult. Construction is planned for 2028, pending an updated feasibility study.

The decision followed two hours of public testimony. Opponents, including the nonprofit Protect the Porkies, warned that the underground operation would produce over 40 tons of toxic waste and threaten wetlands, streams, and Lake Superior near Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. While state legislators and InvestUP argued the mine is a critical economic opportunity for the region, environmental groups accused the board of ignoring the public will. This funding follows a previous failed attempt to secure the same amount through the Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget.