Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
March 10, 2009Young
Entrepreneurs Take Flight Through Program
The Humber Economic Development Board is
launching the next phase of a program designed to foster an innovative
and entrepreneurial culture among youth in Newfoundland and Labrador�s
western region. The Business Wings Entrepreneurship Program, funded
through an $11,097 investment from the Provincial Government, provides a
forum for young entrepreneurs to share experiences, information, and
collaborate with their peers.
"There are many exciting industries
emerging in Newfoundland and Labrador that are being driven by young
entrepreneurs," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of
Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "To stimulate this continued
activity, the Provincial Government is pleased to support innovative
programs such as the Business Wings Entrepreneurship Program. I am
confident that it will provide valuable insights for young entrepreneurs
and open their minds to existing and new opportunities."
The 23-week program provides networking sessions for
young entrepreneurs, the opportunity to exchange insights with other
entrepreneurs, and to help identify business challenges and growth
opportunities. Growing from 16 participants in 2006-07 and 33 in
2007-08, the latest sessions will target more than 50 aspiring
entrepreneurs and business owners.
"The Business Wings program has met considerable
demand increasing from 16 members in 2006 to more than 50 this year,"
said Tony Blanchard, President, Humber Economic Development Board. "We
are able to offer entrepreneurs this valuable program at no cost, and
they are able to take away a vast amount of information and resources to
apply to their operations."
Incorporated in 1996, the Humber Economic
Development Board has been aggressive in encouraging greater involvement
of youth in growing the region�s business community. Participants have
been from Corner Brook, Pasadena, Deer Lake, Benoits Cove, and Kippens.
"I congratulate the Humber Economic Development Board
for being active in encouraging youth to pursue new business
opportunities," said Minister Skinner. "Our people, especially our
youth, are our most valuable resource and we will continue to support
programs that stimulate an atmosphere where people want to build careers
in Newfoundland and Labrador."
Funding was through the Regional/Sectoral
Diversification Fund (RSDF). Administered by the Department of
Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, RSDF is a $5-million fund that
provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies
for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and
diversification.
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Media contact:
Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290
scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca
2009 03 10
11:10 a.m. |
