RURAL OPPORTUNITIES CONFERENCES FEATURE BUSINESS SUCCESS STORIES

The Action Committee on the Rural Economy (ACRE) is again holding a series of conferences to highlight rural economic opportunities in Saskatchewan.

This series of meetings, similar to those held in 2004, will take place from February 28th to March 2nd.

Each conference involves a presentation by a keynote speaker from ACRE, as well as local entrepreneurs who have achieved success in rural Saskatchewan.

"Saskatchewan's economy is very strong, and we have significant potential to build on the growth that's already happening in rural Saskatchewan," Deputy Premier and Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Clay Serby said. "The conferences will help to highlight our competitive business environment and the many advantages it offers new entrepreneurs seeking to build a business here in Saskatchewan. They also provide an excellent opportunity for us to emphasize the positive and to celebrate the successes many rural entrepreneurs and businesses have already achieved."

Entrepreneurs, potential entrepreneurs, and representatives from businesses, associations and communities are encouraged to attend. All sessions are free and run from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at:

1. Meadow Lake, North West Regional College, on February 28th,
2. Melfort, Leisure Centre, on February 28th,
3. Outlook, Heritage Centre, on March 1st,
4. Melville, Prince William Motor Inn, on March 1st,
5. Shaunavon, Heritage and Cultural Centre, on March 2nd,
6. Weyburn, Weyburn Inn, on March 2nd.

"I know that anyone who attends these conferences will be inspired by the local business success stories, and the wealth of business ideas that will emerge in the discussions," ACRE chair Audrey Horkoff said. "Many of our speakers are rural residents operating small- and medium-sized businesses, and they can talk about what it means to invest in yourself and in your ideas, assets and resources."

Horkoff said these conferences build on one of ACRE's key findings: that, in order for communities to survive, individuals need to take charge of their own future. "These conferences will give participants the tools to take the first step," she said.

Conference information is available at www.rd.gov.sk.ca or by calling (306) 787-4484.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Audrey Horkoff ACRE Kamsack Phone: (306) 542-4472

Alan Syhlonyk Rural Development Regina Phone: (306) 787-4483