Small-scale manufacturing enterprises wanting to acquire greater knowledge of available financial and non-financial support services to help grow their operations are finding increasing value in Manufacturing Insights Workshops.

"The province is home to a diverse manufacturing sector, and as a government we are committed to creating accessible programs that enable local enterprises to make smarter decisions, increase their capabilities and more effectively sell their products," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Today�s marketplace is highly competitive and through initiatives such as the Manufacturing Insights Workshops companies have direct access to sector specialists who can help them connect with a wide variety of sector resources, information and networking opportunities designed to help them realize success."

The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, in cooperation with Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Business Network and Canadian Manufacturing and Exporters, began implementing the Manufacturing Insights Initiative in December 2007. To date, there have been nine sessions � two in Corner Brook and St. John�s, Marystown, Bay Roberts, Labrador City, Clarenville, and Grand Falls-Windsor. A second session is scheduled for Grand Falls-Windsor on February 25, 2009.

"The information presented at the recent Manufacturing Insights session in Corner Brook was extremely useful and provided a good overview of available services and programs," said Ralph Eldridge of Pasadena-based Visible Innovation � a manufacturer of photoluminescent signs and markings that glow in the dark, without electricity, and provide a reliable path to exits. "I strongly encourage other organizations to take advantage of this workshop � they allow you to connect with representatives from the Provincial and Federal Governments, along with other business people, who provide assistance as to how best to grow your company."

The next workshop will be held at the Mount Peyton Hotel in Grand Falls-Windsor on February 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Admission is free. A lunch will be provided and a tour of Hi-Point Industries � a manufacturer and exporter of peat absorbents to 25 countries, will follow. Those interested in attending the conference and seek more information, please contact Jim Dunn at 709-729-7954.

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