Michigan Awards $50 Million Grant to Controversial Copperwood Mine
The state of Michigan has awarded a $50 million grant to the controversial Copperwood copper mine in the Upper Peninsula, aiming to stimulate economic development. The funding, intended for site readiness and road improvements, comes after years of attempts by…

Fort Myers Naples, FL, August 26, 2026 —
LANSING, MI – The state of Michigan has committed $50 million in grant funding to the Copperwood copper mine, located in the Upper Peninsula. The funds are designated for site readiness and improvements to local road infrastructure, as announced by state officials.
The grant is aimed at stimulating economic development in the region. Highland Copper Inc., the company behind the Copperwood project, has sought state subsidies for the mine over several years.
The decision to award the grant has drawn criticism from various groups. Environmental organizations have voiced concerns regarding the potential ecological impact of the mining operation on the local environment. Additionally, some former board members have expressed reservations about the allocation of taxpayer money towards the project.
Details regarding the specific timeline for the site readiness and road improvements, as well as the exact nature of the environmental concerns, were not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.
