West Cobar Metals (ASX:WC1) is advancing its US-focused critical minerals strategy through Washington-based advisory partnerships and federal funding.
The company has formally lodged documentation for US government funding to support the development of the Salazar Critical Minerals Project in Western Australia.
West Cobar is working with GreenMet, a Washington DC-based advisory firm led by former senior US government official Drew Horn, to access federal grant and loan programs while developing strategic partnerships and offtake pathways.
Managing Director Matt Szwedzicki says the company is positioning itself within the rapidly emerging US critical minerals supply chain where security of supply has become a national priority.
“Our portfolio contains multiple commodities that are directly aligned with US strategic priorities, and we are now advancing formal engagement with government funding and support mechanisms,” Szwedzicki says.
“Through our partnership with GreenMet, we are building visibility with US policy makers and industry participants, which we believe has the potential to deliver non-dilutive funding, strategic partnerships, and accelerated project outcomes.”
West Cobar’s Salazar Project hosts “extensive” mineral resources including 230 million tonnes at 1,178 parts per million (ppm) total rare earth oxides across indicated and inferred categories.
The project includes 44 million tonnes at 1,239ppm total rare earth oxides in the indicated category using a 600ppm cut-off.
The Western Australian project also contains inferred resources of 15 million tonnes at 153ppm scandium oxide, 42 million tonnes at 5.20% titanium dioxide, and 263 million tonnes at 35ppm gallium oxide.
West Cobar plans to progress technical studies and development pathways while continuing US funding discussions and evaluating acquisition opportunities.
West Cobar Metals is an exploration and development company focused on progressing the Salazar Critical Minerals Project and the Fraser Range Project in Western Australia, as well as exploring for copper and antimony in New South Wales.
Write to Amy Rotman at Mining.com.au
Images: West Cobar Metals
