NexGold Mining Corp. (TSXV: NEXG; OTCQX: NXGCF) has taken a significant step forward in its quest to develop the Goldboro Gold Project in Nova Scotia by securing its Industrial Approval (IA) from the provincial government. This approval represents one of the last major hurdles before construction can begin on what promises to be a transformative project not only for the company but also for the local economy.
The Industrial Approval is a critical permit issued under Nova Scotia’s Environment Act, defining the rigorous environmental and operational conditions the company must adhere to once the mine becomes operational. This approval follows a comprehensive environmental assessment completed in August 2022 and marks the culmination of nearly two years of preparation and regulatory engagement, including the IA application submitted in August 2023. The government’s acceptance that the application was complete came in June 2025, after which a final review concluded in late August 2025, officially granting NexGold the right to proceed.
For NexGold, which operates in both Canada and Alaska with assets like the Goliath Gold Complex in Ontario and the high-grade Niblack copper-gold-silver project in Alaska, this permit clears a path toward construction and eventual gold production at Goldboro. President and CEO Kevin Bullock expressed a mix of relief and pride in announcing the IA, emphasizing the dedication of both the regulatory teams and NexGold’s staff over the past two years. He recognized the support of the Nova Scotia Minister of Environment and Climate Change, noting how critical collaboration with government bodies has been in advancing the project.
Goldboro is more than just another gold mine for NexGold; it represents an important growth opportunity. The project has the potential to create over 700 jobs and is projected to contribute an impressive $2.1 billion to Nova Scotia’s economy over its lifetime. This economic boost is not taken lightly by the province or by NexGold, which has made community engagement and sustainability a priority throughout the project’s development. From creating safe workplaces to fostering regional economic opportunities and ensuring an ongoing dialogue with Indigenous Nations, NexGold’s approach aims to balance growth with social responsibility.
The Industrial Approval includes strictly enforced conditions to mitigate environmental impact and protect the local ecosystem. Achieving this approval means NexGold can now plan the start of construction, which is expected to begin in 2026. With the groundwork laid, the company can move forward with confidence, bringing the Goldboro project closer to delivering gold production and contributing to the company’s broader portfolio.
NexGold’s wider strategy involves leveraging the potential of its two near-term gold projects in Canada, Goldboro in Nova Scotia and Goliath Gold Complex in Ontario. These projects offer options for the company to choose its path toward financing and production. At Goliath, federal environmental approvals have also positioned that project for advancement, complementing the progress made at Goldboro.
The company’s vision is ambitious. Beyond just these projects, NexGold foresees scaling its gold production capacity substantially by expanding current operations and possibly adding new assets. Their ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes, combined with focused exploration and development, holds promise for growing their presence in North America’s gold mining sector.
Overall, the granting of the Industrial Approval for Goldboro is a major milestone for NexGold. It reflects years of detailed environmental studies, regulatory submissions, and ongoing discussions with government and community stakeholders. More importantly, it sets the stage for NexGold’s next chapter, transforming one of Canada’s promising gold projects into a generating asset that will deliver economic benefits for the company, the region, and its people.
