Nicola Mining Inc. (TSXV: NIM) (FSE: HLIA) (OTCQB: HUSIF) has announced an additional $1 million strategic non-brokered private investment from Ocean Partners UK Limited. The company stated this investment will strengthen its balance sheet as it prepares for a planned NASDAQ uplisting in the first quarter of 2026. Under the offering, Ocean Partners has agreed to purchase up to 1,111,112 units at $0.90 per unit for gross proceeds of up to $1 million, with each unit consisting of one common share and one transferable warrant exercisable at $1.10 per share for three years, subject to customary conditions and TSX Venture Exchange approval.
The strategic investment comes at a critical time for Nicola Mining as it positions itself for broader market exposure through the planned NASDAQ listing. A successful uplisting to a major U.S. exchange like NASDAQ typically provides companies with increased liquidity, greater visibility among institutional investors, and enhanced credibility in the capital markets. For junior mining companies like Nicola, access to deeper pools of capital is essential for funding exploration, development, and operational activities.
Nicola Mining maintains a 100% owned mill and tailings facility located near Merritt, British Columbia, which is fully permitted to process both gold and silver mill feed via gravity and flotation processes. The company has signed Mining and Milling Profit Share Agreements with high-grade gold projects, leveraging its infrastructure to generate revenue while minimizing capital expenditure risks. This operational model provides a steady cash flow stream that complements its exploration-focused assets.
The company's portfolio includes 100% ownership of the New Craigmont Project, a high-grade copper property covering 10,913 hectares along the southern end of the Guichon Batholith. This property is adjacent to Highland Valley Copper, Canada's largest copper mine, suggesting geological potential in a proven mining district. Additionally, Nicola owns 100% of the Treasure Mountain Property, which includes 30 mineral claims and a mineral lease spanning over 2,200 hectares. These assets position the company to benefit from growing demand for copper in renewable energy and electrification infrastructure.
The investment from Ocean Partners UK Limited represents a vote of confidence from an established industry participant. Strategic investments from industry partners often signal deeper due diligence and long-term alignment with the company's development plans. For investors, this transaction may indicate reduced financing risk as the company approaches its NASDAQ uplisting timeline. The warrant component of the offering provides Ocean Partners with additional upside potential if Nicola's share price appreciates above $1.10 within the three-year exercise period.
For the mining industry, successful uplistings of Canadian junior miners to U.S. exchanges can create pathways for similar companies seeking expanded investor bases. The transaction also highlights continued interest in copper and precious metals assets amid global economic uncertainty and energy transition trends. Investors can find more information about Nicola Mining's developments in the company's newsroom at https://ibn.fm/HUSIF. The broader mining sector continues to evolve through strategic partnerships and capital market advancements that facilitate resource development.
