BUILD YOUR OWN BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN WATROUS

Released on January 24, 2006

The Long Lake Regional Economic Development Authority (REDA) will host "Build Your Own Business," an informational conference for aspiring rural entrepreneurs, on January 25th in Watrous.

"Expanding and diversifying our economy includes investing in our greatest asset, our people," Deputy Premier and Rural Development Minister Clay Serby said. "We've got people and entrepreneurs across the province wanting to launch or expand a business. This workshop will equip them with the tools to transform their ideas into reality."

The one-day workshop will provide encouragement and information to rural residents who are implementing a new business venture or agricultural enterprise, or have identified a business opportunity they are interested in developing.

"Building your own business: most of us have thought about it; some of us have even put aside an idea or two," Long Lake REDA Agricultural Development Officer Mark Knuttila said. "This workshop is geared specifically for this group of people, and promises to be an exciting day full of opportunities and successes."

Participants will receive information on the development process for new business ventures, the assistance available, practical examples from successful agri-business entrepreneurs, and marketing strategies.

Conference presentations include "Community Development Starts With You" by community activist Christalee Froese; "Marketing Strategies for Agri-business" by University of Saskatchewan agricultural economics associate professor Tom Allen; "Diversifying the Farm" by Wagon Wheel Seed Corp. owner Warren Kaeding; and "Opportunities and Successes in Saskatchewan" with certified agricultural consultant Kevin Hursh. The conference will also feature a panel discussion with local entrepreneurs.

The following organizations partnered to fund the event: Long Lake REDA, Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Sagehill Development Corporation, Canadian Adaptation and Rural Development Saskatchewan, Affinity Credit Union, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Agriculture Institute of Management in Saskatchewan, the Canadian Agricultural Skills Service (CASS) program, and the town of Watrous.

Build Your Own Business begins at 9:00 a.m. at the Watrous Civic Centre.

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For More Information, Contact:

Donna Rehirchuk Rural Development Regina Phone: (306) 787-2359