Released on May 11, 2004
Saskatchewan has designated May 10th to 16th Women Entrepreneurs Week to recognize the significant contribution made by women to the provincial economy.Women entrepreneurs are a force in business, with over 33 per cent of all Saskatchewan businesses owned and operated by women in 2003. The organization Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan, plays an important role in nurturing women who are considering or are currently operating a business in the province.
"Saskatchewan women entrepreneurs are one of the reasons that our provincial economy is experiencing some of the strongest growth in the nation," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Women Entrepreneurs Week highlights those achievements, contributions, and valuable role in Saskatchewan's economic success."
According to Industry Canada, four of every five new businesses in the country are started by women. Not only are women creating jobs for themselves, but they are providing job opportunities for literally thousands of people in Saskatchewan and across the nation.
"Saskatchewan women have demonstrated they are more than capable of taking on decision making roles within business organizations," Minister responsible for the Status of Women Deb Higgins said. "According to the report Workplaces that Work, released last year by Canada's Status of Women Ministers, firms where women hold the majority of senior executive positions show the largest sales growth."
The annual general meeting of Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan and a special symposium to be held in Regina on May 14th highlight the week's activities.
A non-profit organization, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan provides support and encouragement for women who are considering careers in business, starting businesses or expanding existing businesses in the province. To date, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan has provided about $8 million in loans to Saskatchewan businesswomen that has created or maintained over 500 full-time jobs in the province.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8277 |