Funding announced for 2004 Junior Achievement Atlantic Conference

The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development today announced it will provide $8,500 in funding to support the 2004 Junior Achievement Atlantic Conference, which will take place April 16 to 18 in St. John�s.

Approximately 200 students from across Atlantic Canada will attend the conference, which is being organized by Junior Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador. The goal of the conference is to recognize and reward students for their dedication and hard work with their company projects and to reinforce entrepreneurial skills learned through Junior Achievement. The Junior Achievement Atlantic Conference is held annually on a rotating basis in one of the Atlantic provinces.

"The conference will provide an opportunity for students to further strengthen their leadership, communications and decision-making skills and to develop a clearer perspective on their career potential," said Innovation, Trade and Rural Development Minister Kathy Dunderdale. "Government�s investment in Junior Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador is an investment in our leaders of tomorrow and in our province�s future."

Junior Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador operates in 100 elementary, junior high and high schools throughout the province. The organization assisted more than 6,200 students during the 2002-03 school year. Over 400 individuals from the province�s business community volunteer their time and talent to Junior Achievement.

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Communications, (709) 729-4570

2004 03 26                                        12:20 p.m.