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NioCorp has commenced construction on the Elk Creek rare earth mineral mine in Johnson County, Nebraska, breaking ground on its portal four to five months ahead of schedule. The project is expected to be completed by 2029 and will cost approximately $1.2 billion.

NioCorp has raised over $100 million and is pursuing $780 million from the Export-Import Bank of the United States. The mine aims to supply essential minerals like niobium and scandium domestically, meeting rising demand, especially from the Department of Defense. NioCorp has been developing the mine for 15 years and awaits a final feasibility study to secure federal funding.