Innovative enterprises are emerging throughout the province and giving rise to knowledge-based industries.  The continued development of these industries is essential in the sustained growth of our province.

As a government, we are committed to providing the necessary resources to businesses so they can develop best-in-class products and services.　

A central component of our approach is the Business Retention and Expansion Program or BR&E, as it is more commonly known.  Through BR&E, we work directly with businesses to address growth barriers or specific issues impacting business operations.  Together, an action plan is developed that addresses those challenges.  By working collectively we are not only strengthening that operation but empowering the company to play a greater role in the growth of their communities.

For us, BR&E is not just a program but a means of enhancing our business counselling services. It is a proactive approach that supports INTRD�s mandate of encouraging and supporting business growth and sustainable employment opportunities.

By working directly with businesses we create greater awareness of available resources for them to target new opportunities.  Through Business Retention and Expansion Program far more businesses are utilizing our business development programs, which from a financial perspective total more than $23 million � up from $2 million under the previous administration.　

Additionally, BR&E�s planning sessions facilitate the creation of strong relationships with our regional partners.  Through ongoing collaboration initiatives that support economic development are formulated.

One of the immediate outcomes of the BR&E program was businesses identifying the need for strong partnerships and business networks.　

In the Avalon Region, 10 private sector enterprises are forming the Trinity-Conception Manufacturing Network.  As part of that initiative, departmental officials will help them work through human resource challenges, develop an action plan, and utilize the tools of other provincial and federal departments to more efficiently manage their operations.

In the Western Region, members of the BR&E team worked with the City of Corner Brook, the Downtown Business Association, and Greater Corner Brook Area Board of Trade to identify opportunities to better utilize the Internet and find alternative financing options.  We are also in the early stages of working with companies along the Northern Peninsula and look forward to helping them achieve their objectives.

High levels of collaboration, along with innovative thinking and planning, are clear throughout all regions.　 This collective approach will help position the province for future generations.