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Business Growth: Kirkland Lake Economic Development Corporation

The Kirkland Lake Economic Development Corporation is incorporated, not-for-profit organization and part of the Community Futures Development Corporations which is funded by the Government of Canada.

Kirkland Lake was built by dreamers back in 1906 – dreamers that prospected relentlessly for that one big discovery.

Fast forward to 2005; Kirkland Lake was rejuvenated when KL Gold Macassa discovered the South Mine Complex, one of the richest gold reserves in the world. Thanks to this amazing new discovery, the community of Kirkland Lake is thriving again and estimates suggest that this reserve could last for 15 years.

Artisan Vehicles, the company that first deployed battery powertrains at Kirkland Lake Gold’s Macassa Mine, is making a long-term commitment to stay and grow in Kirkland Lake. Artisan intends to advance its technology and to build its vehicles right here, where this inspiring phenomenon began.

“We are honoured that Artisan Vehicles has selected Kirkland Lake for its Canadian operations,” said Mayor Tony Antoniazzi. “Battery technology will make Kirkland Lake a name that is recognized around the world. This is an extraordinary moment for our community and we are all committed to supporting Artisan as they continue to lead this important industry transformation.”

“We are extremely excited to be part of Kirkland Lake’s future. We believe that being part of this community and being close to our customers is critical for achieving zero emissions underground,” said Mike Mayhew, Artisan’s Director of Mining.

In addition, Mayor Antoniazzi said, “I’m excited to welcome Artisan Vehicles to Kirkland Lake. This is a dynamic and progressive company that represents the future of mining – clean, green and safe.”

Celebrating their centennial year in 2019, there is a lot going on in this small Northern community. Not only are they home to the impressive Macassa Mine by Kirkland Lake Gold and the new base of Canadian operations of Artisan Vehicles, but they also have many new ventures on the horizon, such as a package-sorting plant that will be operational in 2018. 

With all of this moving forward, it is hard to contain the excitement of those in the community. The town has invested in the rebranding of Heritage North, a Civic Park Outdoor Event Centre., in 2017, and a new Aquatic Centre, slated for use in January 2018.

This represents the philosophy of growth that is steadfastly maintained by the Town and Council. This includes a renewed promise of expansion that has launched a project to identify new land for commercial and industrial development, and also will participate with Kirkland Lake Gold and Artisan Vehicles in joint marketing and recruitment efforts. 

”This is a priority for the Town,” said Mayor Antoniazzi. “Artisan reflects the economic diversification and job creation mandate this Council set for itself at the start of its term.”