WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS WEEK MAY 5 TO 11

Released on May 5, 2000

The contributions of businesswomen to the province's economy are being

recognized during Women Entrepreneurs Week in Saskatchewan, May 5 to 11.



National statistics show women are starting businesses at a rate roughly twice

that of men, and that the number of Canadian women with incorporated businesses

has more than doubled over the last decade. In Saskatchewan, women own roughly

one-quarter of all businesses and employ almost 90,000 people.



"Women entrepreneurs are a dynamic force in Saskatchewan, growing businesses

right across our province," Economic and Co-operative Development Minister

Janice MacKinnon said. "With innovative management styles and a commitment to

new technology, they are helping position Saskatchewan for success in the new,

knowledge-based economy."



"Today, more women than ever before are expanding their employment

opportunities by operating their own businesses, and enjoying such benefits as

independence, creativity and personal satisfaction," Minister Responsible for

the Status of Women Joanne Crofford said.



The week kicks off in Saskatoon with the annual conference of the Women

Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan, a federally funded, non-profit organization that

fosters entrepreneurial development among women. Over the past five years,

Women Entrepreneurs has provided business information to more than 12,000 women

and lent more than $3 million to new and existing businesses.



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For more information, contact:



Bob Ellis Laura Small

Economic and Co-operative Development Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan

Regina Saskatoon

Phone: (306) 787-1691 Phone: (306) 477-7173