Tivan (ASX:TVN) signed a deed of variation with the Australian Government to bring forward funding of AU$3 million to August under the AU$7.4 million International Partnerships in Critical Minerals grant awarded to the Speewah project in Western Australia, according to a Thursday filing with the Australian bourse.

The AU$3 million funding will be used to progress the definitive feasibility study (DFS) for the project ahead of a final investment decision, the filing said.

The balance of grant funding of about AU$1 million is scheduled to be received upon DFS completion and final grant reporting, per the filing.

Shares fell nearly 8% in midday trade Thursday.