Released on May 10, 2017
The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed the week of May 8 to 14, as Women Entrepreneurs Week in Saskatchewan. The week provides the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the successes of women entrepreneurs in the province, and their contributions to its economy.“Women entrepreneurs are a vital part of business in Saskatchewan, providing opportunities and creating jobs that contribute to the stability and vibrancy of the province,” Economy Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “This week is an opportunity to recognize and promote the important role they play, advancing Saskatchewan and enhancing the quality of life of all who live here.”
There were 34,300 self-employed women in Saskatchewan in 2016, reflecting an 11.4 per cent growth over 10 years, from 30,800 in 2006. The province’s women entrepreneurs contribute to various business sectors, including construction, manufacturing, health services, finance, scientific and technological services, among others.
“Women continue to make significant contributions toward the long-term economic growth and prosperity of our province,” Social Services Minister and Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Tina Beaudry-Mellor said. “They are seizing opportunities, pursuing their goals, creating jobs and working to keep Saskatchewan strong. Our government also thanks the Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan for their significant role in recognizing and advancing women entrepreneurs throughout the province and for helping them to achieve their goals.”
As part of events to celebrate this week, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. will host a two-day annual business conference. The organization has provided business advisory and support services, loans, mentorship, learning and networking opportunities to hundreds of women, since its inception in 1995.
The 2017 conference will focus on the theme, Business Innovation Through Technology, and will feature speakers from local and national enterprises.
“We are grateful for the designation of this week as Women Entrepreneurs Week,” Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. Chief Executive Officer Prabha Mitchell said. “The ‘disruptive’ force of technology is transforming economies, further influencing the spirit of creativity in entrepreneurs. Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. is focused on empowering women business owners to rethink and utilize technology to enable new forms of creativity, products and jobs in our province.”
In its 22 years of operations, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. has provided more than $35 million in loans, and continues to offer various program and service supports to its over 900 members.
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For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4765
Email: deb.young@gov.sk.ca