TSX-V-listed Frontier Lithium has signed process agreements with Deer Lake First Nation and Sandy Lake First Nation, as it advances permitting for its PAK lithium project in Ontario under the province’s One Project, One Process (1P1P) framework.

The agreements, announced last week, establish a structured approach to engagement, information sharing and participation as technical studies and permitting activities progress for potential all-season road access, as well as the construction and operation of a mine and mill.

Frontier said the agreements are intended to provide transparency and predictability for all parties, while recognising Anishinninew laws and protocols and aligning Indigenous engagement with provincial regulatory processes. The approach is consistent with Ontario’s objective of streamlining approvals without weakening environmental protections.

The agreements build on more than a decade of engagement between Frontier and the two First Nations, including exploration agreements that have been in place since 2016.

Frontier president and CEO Trevor Walker said the agreements represented best practice for Indigenous engagement in mining.

“We view these agreements as essential to ensuring that any consideration of the project proceeds in a coordinated manner that integrates Indigenous perspectives with provincial regulatory processes,” he said.

Chief Lenard Mamakeesick of Deer Lake First Nation said the agreement set out how the community would be engaged as the project advances through Ontario’s 1P1P framework.

“Our concerns about the land, water and future generations will be heard and considered,” he said.

Sandy Lake First Nation also highlighted the importance of protecting lands and waters, noting that the agreements create clarity around information sharing and the respect of community laws and protocols.

Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce said the project demonstrated that critical minerals development could advance through partnership with Indigenous communities.

“Ontario’s One Project, One Process designation for Frontier Lithium’s PAK project is driving this job-creating project forward with speed and in meaningful partnership with Deer Lake First Nation and Sandy Lake First Nation,” he said.

Frontier said the agreements support its anticipated 24-month 1P1P provincial permitting timeline, aligned with the province’s goal of reducing government review timelines by 50%.

The PAK lithium project is a joint venture between Frontier (92.5%) and Mitsubishi Corporation (7.5%) and includes a proposed mine and mill north of Red Lake, Ontario, as well as a downstream lithium conversion facility in Thunder Bay.

A 2025 feasibility study outlined a 31-year project life with an after-tax net present value of $932-million at an 8% discount rate and an after-tax internal rate of return of 17.9%.