Graphano Energy Ltd. has received two exploration permits from Québec’s Ministère des Ressources naturelles et des Forêts for its Black Jack graphite discovery, clearing the way for mechanical stripping and diamond drilling.

Permit ATI-862 covers a 1.1-hectare area and authorizes mechanical stripping of rock at Black Jack between September 15, 2026, and October 31, 2027. A second permit, ATI-863, spans 2.15 hectares and permits diamond drilling from October 15, 2026, through November 30, 2027.

The Black Jack discovery was identified during the company's spring 2026 prospecting program approximately one kilometre northwest of the Black Pearl graphite project in Québec. Earlier spring prospecting identified 28 grab samples at Black Jack returning an average grade of 19.8% Cg over an exposed horizon measuring approximately 100 metres long and up to 15 metres wide; the current release advances this discovery by securing provincial permits authorizing mechanical stripping and diamond drilling. The exposed horizon lies along a cluster of airborne conductive anomalies with an interpreted strike length exceeding 1.1 kilometres.

Receipt of the permits allows Graphano to proceed with the stripping, mapping, and systematic channel sampling program previously identified as the next phase of work. Following completion of that prospecting phase, the company intends to conduct exploration drilling at the prospect under permit ATI-863.

"Receipt of the Permits is an important milestone for Black Jack and allows us to advance the next phase of our planned exploration program. The stripping, detailed mapping and systematic channel sampling will help us better evaluate the continuity, width and extent of the graphite-bearing horizon identified during our spring program. We look forward to commencing this next phase of work ." — Dr. Luisa Moreno, Chief Executive Officer

Elsewhere in the surrounding district, Northern Graphite Corporation reported on August 19, 2026, that the restart of its Lac des Iles graphite mine has been affected by a mining lease suspension and financial constraints, alongside receiving authorization for a planned pit expansion.

Meanwhile, the company’s pending transaction regarding the 3D Genesis Technologies APIC metal additive manufacturing technology remains under review by the TSX Venture Exchange. Graphano and 3D Genesis are currently negotiating a definitive agreement in respect of the transaction, which remains subject to exchange acceptance, execution of the final agreement, and customary closing conditions.

Read the full announcement: Graphano Energy Receives Exploration Permits for Black Jack Graphite Discovery and Provides Corporate Update