Released on May 1, 2009
The Government of Saskatchewan today launched the North Central Enterprise Region (NCER) that will see more funding and expanded services for regional economic development. Operating out of Prince Albert, NCER will receive $400,000 in funding. Its new service area covers Spiritwood, Duck Lake, Birch Hills, Kinistino, Shellbrook, Candle Lake and communities in between.
"Saskatchewan is attracting big budget projects, and we needed to reorganize the regional economic development agencies so as to take advantage of these opportunities," Enterprise and Innovation Minister Lyle Stewart said. "By expanding and strengthening the services of the ERs we want to see these communities develop into high performing economic regions."
The new ER program will strongly focus on sustainable economic growth by supporting regional business and industries and creating competitiveness advantages at the regional, national and international level.
"We are very excited about the new ER program and look forward to more economic development initiatives within the broader NCER," NCER Board Chair George Tomporowski said. "We want to strengthen our economy and ensure that the NCER region thrives as a great place to live, work and do business."
The new ER program is operational in 13 new regions across the province. The decision to create the new larger regions is based on where people live and work and takes into consideration natural boundaries such as rivers and road patterns.
The new ER program is now fully operational after the former REDA program, ceased operations on March 31, 2009.
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For more information, contact:
Tim Tororey
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5582
Email: tim.tororey@enterprisesask.ca