Released on March 1, 2007
Organizations committed to community economic development are being celebrated for their achievements during Regional Economic Development Authority (REDA) Week in Saskatchewan, March 4 to 10.
Saskatchewan’s 28 REDAs lead economic development in the province by developing and promoting the economic strengths of their regions, and exemplify collaboration among local governments, businesses, communities, co-operatives, Aboriginal people and youth.
“REDAs are an excellent example of how regional partners co-operate and collaborate,” Deputy Premier and Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Clay Serby said. “They demonstrate that citizens, community leaders, local governments, businesses and industry can capitalize on regional strengths and create wealth within regions to make life better for Saskatchewan families.”
Past project support to the REDA Enhancement Fund has enabled REDAs to attract additional funding of $4.6 million on 191 projects. These projects have gone on to realize capital infrastructure worth more than $88 million, and created and maintained more than 670 jobs.
Currently, REDAs are engaged in 130 projects and initiatives around the province. In Southeast Saskatchewan, the Cornerstone REDA has partnered with South East REDA, the City of Weyburn, the Town of Carlyle, the Government of Saskatchewan and the Government of Canada to launch an on-line Business Permit and Licence (BizPaL) service that will make it easier for entrepreneurs to know what kind of permits and licences they will need from all three levels of governments, when starting or expanding a business.
“This initiative will assist new business development in our region and save entrepreneurs time and money,” Cornerstone REDA executive director Judy Riddell said. “The next step in the plan is that Arcola will be the next Cornerstone REDA member community to participate in BizPaL.”
In 2006-07, Saskatchewan Regional Economic and Co-operative Development enhanced its support to REDAs by increasing core operating funding, REDA Enhancement Fund support for regional projects and REDA Youth Employment Program support. The REDA Youth Employment Program encourages mentoring and employment for senior business students and graduates in the field of business and economic development.
REDAs have a number of special activities scheduled during REDA Week. For more information on REDA Week activities in southeast Saskatchewan, contact your local REDA.
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For more information, contact:
Donna Rehirchuk
Regional Economic and Co-operative Development
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359