Followers

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

June 24, 2013

PROVINCE CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF JOB CREATION, ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY THROUGH FIRST PEOPLES ECONOMIC GROWTH FUND

– – –
Seventy-four Loans have Helped Create 447 Jobs, Leveraged Nearly $55 Million of Investment: Premier
Premier Greg Selinger today joined Michelle and Dennis Cameron of Dreamcatcher Promotions to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund. 
“Small and medium-sized businesses are the heart and soul of Manitoba’s economy,” said Selinger.  “Loans provided by the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund have been an effective tool to help entrepreneurs like the Camerons attract investment and create jobs.”
Michelle and Dennis Cameron started Dreamcatcher Promotions in 2012.  With the support of the fund’s Business Plan Assistance Program, they were able to secure a loan through the fund’s Entrepreneur Loan Program to open up a store front location on Notre Dame, upgrade equipment and complete a marketing plan.
“The collaboration with First Peoples Economic Growth Fund has assisted us in establishing ourselves as a productive and able operating business,” said Michelle Cameron.  “We were able to strengthen and enhance our overall services and production we have to offer our clientele.”
The fund was established in 2008 as a partnership between the province and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs to provide loans and support to First Nations entrepreneurs, communities and joint business ventures.  Last year alone, the fund helped create 94 jobs, maintain 47 more and leverage over $15 million in additional investment in the Manitoba economy, Selinger said.
“I am constantly impressed by the entrepreneurs we see who represent such a diverse range of viable businesses in Manitoba.  We are proud to assist them by providing financing that fits their needs and helps them leverage additional capital,” said Ian Cramer, CEO of First Peoples Economic Growth Fund.
“The Manitoba First Nations business community is growing,” said Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson.  “Through the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund, our government is proud to support First Nations entrepreneurs and communities making a real difference by creating jobs and opportunities as we grow the Manitoba economy for the benefit of all Manitobans.” 

No comments: