A significant discovery of high grade nickel, copper, platinum and palladium in drill core over significant widths in September 2007 has become the impetus for a unique fundraising event bringing 300 representatives from the business, entrepreneurial and educational communities together in support of PDAC Mining Matters.

The Ring of Fire Corporate Luncheon, named after Noront Resources Ltd.'s potentially massive nickel-copper-platinum group discovery, will be held Thursday, March 6, in the Fairmont Royal York Hotel's Imperial Room at 11:45AM.

Interest in the Ring of Fire, thought to be among the largest discoveries in Canada during the past decade, has been so intense that the luncheon, co-sponsored by Noront Resources Ltd. and IBK Capital Corp., immediately sold out in December 2007.

Richard Nemis, President and CEO of Noront Resources Ltd. and William White, President of IBK Capital Corp. will update guests about the project, which many believe is destined to become the next large base metal camp in Canada. Noront Resources currently holds 100% of over 66,976 hectares (165,498 acres) of prospective ground. "Drilling is still in its early stages with only twenty-nine holes drilled at the project", says Mr. Nemis. "Noront aims to add two more drills and crews in January 2008 in addition to the drills currently deployed. Highlighted drill results include 117 metres grading 4.1% nickel, 2.2% copper, 2.1 grams per tonne platinum and 7.13 grams per tonne palladium."

Patricia Dillon, President of PDAC Mining Matters, says response to the luncheon also speaks to growing awareness of the importance of mining education to the industry. "We are delighted to have Dr. James Gill address our guests at the event." Dr. Gill, founder, former president and CEO of Aur Resources is a leading proponent and committed supporter of mining education for young people. "There is significant interest in hearing his thoughts on the vital role that education will play in ensuring the industry's future," says Ms. Dillon.

In keeping with a shared commitment to mining education, Noront Resources and IBK Capital are extending complimentary invitations to 50 promising students at the university level with two students to be seated at each corporate table. "Each of our corporate guests has significant experience that the next generation can benefit from," says William White. "We're particularly interested in creating a networking opportunity for these young people to encourage their participation in the mining industry."

PDAC Mining Matters is a non-profit charitable organization devoted to broadening student awareness of mining and its contribution to their daily lives.

Over the past decade, more than 400,000 elementary and secondary students in Ontario have benefited from its educational programs and resources. The organization is now taking steps to extend its programs to other Canadian provinces.