SASKATCHEWAN CELEBRATES REDA WEEK MARCH 4-10 IN NORTH BATTLEFORD

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.  For example, the Northwest REDA in Meadow Lake, Gateway REDA in Moosomin, and West Central REDA in Kindersley have partnered with community groups to form the Prairie Ethanol Consortium, which will begin planning for the construction of six integrated ethanol facilities in rural Saskatchewan.  The project has received funding support from the Province’s REDA Enhancement Fund, and the federal government’s Biofuel Opportunity for Producers Initiative.

“The consortium was formed to maximize efficiency in developing business plans for these facilities,” Northwest REDA economic development officer Barry Lewis said.  “The synergies created through this process are real and will continue to fuel the co-operative and collaborative spirit between the member groups.”

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 the North Battleford region, contact your local REDA.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Donna Rehirchuk
Regional Economic and Co-operative Development
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359