Released on May 11, 2005
May 9th to 14th has been proclaimed Women Entrepreneurs Week in Saskatchewan, to recognize the contribution made by businesswomen to our provincial economy.In 2004, 33 per cent of Saskatchewan businesses were owned and operated by women entrepreneurs. One of the key organizations in the province supporting women is the Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan. This organization supports businesswomen by providing loans, mentoring programs, and training opportunities.
"One of the reasons the Saskatchewan economy has experienced stellar economic growth over the last few years is the contribution made by resourceful, innovative and hard-working women entrepreneurs in the province," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan has played an important role in supporting businesswomen, and we want to congratulate the organization, and recognize its good work during Women Entrepreneurs Week."
Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan has over 750 members in the province, has responded to over 2,000 inquiries, and had 50,000 visits to its website last year. The organization has focused some of its programs to encourage and support young women through mentoring programs delivered in high schools across the province and workshops for girls as young as ten years old who are interested in pursuing a career in business.
"This year marks the tenth anniversary of Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan, and we want to congratulate them for a job well done," Minister responsible for the Status of Women Deb Higgins said. "Women play a crucial role in our economy. Working for others, or working for themselves, women are contributing to making our province a better place to live, work and do business."
On May 13th, Women Entrepreneurs will hold its annual general meeting and a spring conference to highlight the week's activities.
As a non-profit organization, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan has provided $10 million in loans to help women start or expand their business in the province. The financing has helped businesswomen create 550 full time jobs in the province.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Joanne Johnson Industry and Resources Regina Phone: 787-1691 |