Economy Strengthened with $95,000 Investment in Workplace Skills Enhancement

Provincial Government Continues Support of Skilled Workforce with Strategic Investments

Two Newfoundland and Labrador businesses are better positioned to improve their operations as a result of $95,000 in funding from the Provincial Government’s Workplace Skills Enhancement program. Best Boy Entertainment and Ocean Quest will receive funding to assist with staff training and skill development that will lead to increased capacity and improved market presence.

“Having employees with the right skill set is critical to business success and growth. Training and skill development reduces inefficiencies, better prepares businesses and ultimately leads to increased profitability. I am pleased that this $95,000 in funding will assist such a broad range of companies in growing their businesses strategically.”
- The Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development

Best Boy Entertainment will receive almost $83,000 to assist staff with technical training on new educational programs and software, while Ocean Quest will receive $12,000 in funding in order to train employees in SCUBA diving equipment servicing, occupational SCUBA diving and breathing air compressor servicing.

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• Best Boy Entertainment and Ocean Quest have received $95,000 in funding through the Workplace Skills Enhancement program in order to improve their workplace skills which will have a positive impact on their productivity and production capacity.
• The Workplace Skills Enhancement program provides non-repayable contributions for skills development of existing employees for up to 75 per cent of eligible costs to an average of $10,000 per employee.
• The Workplace Skills Enhancement program includes advanced skills training, technical skill development, on-the-job training, workplace-specific skills upgrading or industry-recognized certification.
• The Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development offers a wide range of services and assistance to established and potential business owners. Additional information can be found at: www.ibrd.gov.nl.ca/programs/WSEP.html. 

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Media contact:
Heather MacLean
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 697-4137
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca 

2013 11 27             11:05 a.m.