NOVAGOLD & Paulson Award Key Engineering Contracts to Advance Donlin Gold Bankable Feasibility Study

Key Highlights

• NOVAGOLD Resources Inc. and Paulson Advisers LLC (through Donlin Gold Holdings) have awarded specialized engineering contracts to WSP USA, Inc., Worley Alaska, Inc., and Hatch Ltd.
• The contracts aim to advance key infrastructure and unit operations as part of the ongoing Bankable Feasibility Study (BFS) update for the flagship Donlin Gold project in Alaska.
• The news was announced via press release on March 12, 2026, and is deemed material for investors monitoring the progress of NOVAGOLD’s largest asset.
• The press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to the SEC Form 8-K filing, and is also available on NOVAGOLD’s website.

Details on the Awarded Engineering Contracts

The newly awarded contracts form a critical component of the BFS update for the Donlin Gold project, which is recognized as one of the world’s largest undeveloped gold deposits. The three engineering firms—WSP USA, Worley Alaska, and Hatch—have been chosen to deliver specialized services required to advance both infrastructure and essential unit operations at the project site.

• WSP USA, Inc. will focus on key infrastructure design and integration.
• Worley Alaska, Inc. is tasked with advancing operational aspects unique to Alaska’s challenging environment.
• Hatch Ltd. brings global expertise in large-scale mining projects, aiming to optimize processing flows and plant design.

The BFS update is a pivotal milestone for NOVAGOLD and its partners. It will provide the necessary technical and economic detail required to support future financing, potential construction, and, ultimately, the production decision for the Donlin Gold project.

Why This Matters to Investors and Shareholders

• Material Progress: The awarding of these contracts signals significant progress towards de-risking and advancing the Donlin Gold project, potentially shortening the timeline toward a construction decision.
• Potential Share Price Impact: Advancing to the Bankable Feasibility Study stage is often viewed as a value-accretive move, as it brings greater clarity on project economics and reduces uncertainty regarding permitting, design, and capital requirements.
• Strategic Partnerships: The selection of globally recognized engineering firms suggests a commitment to high technical standards and may increase stakeholder and market confidence in NOVAGOLD’s ability to deliver the project.
• Ongoing Disclosure: The company explicitly states that the information is being furnished (not filed) under Regulation FD, meaning it is provided for transparency but not subject to certain legal liabilities in SEC filings. However, the company highlights that all statements, other than those of historical fact, are forward-looking and subject to risks and uncertainties.
• Forward-Looking Statements: Management cautions that actual results may differ materially from projections due to numerous factors, including permitting, financing, cost estimation, and market conditions.

Risks and Considerations

The press release contains standard cautionary notes regarding forward-looking statements, including risks relating to:

• Achieving production targets at Donlin Gold
• Assumptions around costs, permitting, and approvals
• Market demand for equipment and skilled labor
• Geological and technical uncertainties
• Environmental, social, and regulatory challenges
• Potential requirement for further financing and the availability thereof
• Potential disruptions from local, national, or global events

Investors are urged to review NOVAGOLD’s most recent 10-K and 10-Q filings, particularly the “Risk Factors” section, for a full account of risks associated with the company and the Donlin Gold project.

Conclusion

This development is potentially price-sensitive as it demonstrates tangible progress in progressing the Donlin Gold project to a more advanced engineering and economic stage, which is often closely watched by the market for signals regarding project viability and future value creation.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Investors should consult NOVAGOLD’s official filings and their own advisors before making any investment decisions.

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