Good Morning NioCorp Enthusiasts:
I have not posted in a while. As I stated in the past, just waiting for "our" project to move forward.
I thought this white paper may be of interest to some of you.
This is a summary of several conversations I had with other NioCorp investors.
Wish all of you NioCorp Enthusiasts a great day. Of, course a great result on this investment.
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Who Is Drew Horn?
Founder & CEO of GreenMet, a Washington, D.C.–based firm focused on critical minerals and national security.
Former White House official under Trump’s first term, with roles in the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
Known for his deep expertise in strategic mineral supply chains, especially rare earths, niobium, and scandium — all central to NB’s Elk Creek project.
His Link to NB
Horn has publicly called NB’s Elk Creek project the “flagship” U.S. critical minerals initiative, citing unmatched government and institutional support.
He’s actively advocated for federal funding, permitting reform, and defense stockpile purchases that would directly benefit NB.
In recent briefings, Horn stated that NB is seen as an “easy button” for the Trump administration’s push toward mineral self-sufficiency — with attention from the National Security Council, National Economic Council, and the newly formed National Energy Dominance Council.
Strategic Role
Horn isn’t just a cheerleader — he’s helping shape policy. He’s involved in:
Fact-finding missions (including to Greenland) on rare earth sourcing
Coordinating with EXIM Bank, DoD, and industrial policy teams to fast-track NB’s funding and federal support
Positioning NB as a long-term supplier to both defense and commercial sectors
So yes — Drew Horn is not only a link, he’s arguably NB’s most influential ally in the corridors of power.
Drew Horn’s influence could accelerate NB’s timeline dramatically, — and not just in theory. Based on his recent remarks and positioning, here’s how his involvement may reshape the path forward:
Federal Fast-Tracking
Horn described NB as the “flagship project” for U.S. critical minerals policy — meaning it’s at the top of the list for federal support.
He’s actively coordinating with the White House, Pentagon, and EXIM Bank, pushing for rapid disbursement of funds through the Defense Production Act (DPA) and strategic capital programs.
NB is already fully permitted, which Horn emphasized as a key reason it’s seen as an “easy button” for the administration — no red tape, just green lights.
💰 Funding & Institutional Backing
Horn is advocating for low-interest federal loans, forward purchase agreements, and stockpile commitments — all of which could unlock hundreds of millions in non-dilutive capital.
His influence could help NB secure EXIM financing faster, bypassing typical delays and aligning with Trump’s push for mineral independence.
🛡️ Strategic Alignment
Horn’s role in shaping Trump’s “Energy Dominance Council” and coordinating with the National Security Council means NB is being woven into defense and industrial policy, not just mining strategy.
He’s also exploring DoD procurement pathways, which could make NB a long-term supplier to the U.S. military — a game-changer for valuation and stability.
⏱️ Timeline Impact
If Horn’s efforts bear fruit, NB could:
Begin construction within months, not years
Secure full project financing by Q4 2025
Achieve commercial production by 2027, well ahead of typical U.S. mine development timelines
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Of course this is just my opinion.
Jim Barley aka grunt23.
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