September 30, 2008

CONSULTATIONS WITH COMMUNITY LEADERS TO STRENGTHEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS: WOWCHUK


The province is consulting with a range of key stakeholders on new ideas to strengthen the delivery of economic development programs for rural and northern communities and entrepreneurs, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk announced today.

“Rural and northern Manitobans are making a significant contribution to the strength of the provincial economy by developing innovative bio-products, functional and other food products and manufactured goods, to name a just a few,” said Wowchuk. “Growing the rural and northern economies of the future depends on the ability of entrepreneurs and communities to recognize and seize opportunities, and we’re holding consultations with a wide range of organizations to ensure provincial programs have the greatest benefit possible.”

The consultations have their focus on identifying both strengths and gaps in the way economic development programs are currently delivered, the minister said. The consultations will assist in developing ideas that will build stronger partnerships among government and non-government organizations delivering programs and services to entrepreneurs and communities.

The consultation process builds on the recommendations of the province’s Creating Opportunities report by examining how innovative business ideas can be best supported by economic development agencies and communities.

Results of the stakeholder consultations will be reviewed in October.

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