WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS WEEK RECOGNIZED MAY 7 TO 13

Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Janice MacKinnon and

Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Joanne Crofford today

proclaimed May 7 to 13 as Women Entrepreneurs Week in Saskatchewan.

This week recognizes the contributions that women in business make to

the provincial economy.



"Women entrepreneurs are key participants in a new and innovative

Saskatchewan," MacKinnon said. "This week is an opportunity to both

reflect on the many strides women have made in business and look ahead

to a society that fully taps the potential of bright, ambitious

women."



Women are entering professional fields in ever-increasing numbers and

are starting their own businesses at a faster rate than that of men.

Women own 26 per cent of Saskatchewan businesses and employ almost

90,000 people.



"Women are starting businesses in record numbers," Crofford said.

"Their efforts have paid off with greater control of their lives,

financial security, as well as significant job creation for the

Saskatchewan economy."



A number of organizations in the province work to advance the

interests of business women. One of the major organizations is

Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. which encourages and

fosters entrepreneurial development among women.



"Women Entrepreneurs celebrate the growing number of women in

successful enterprises in our province," Joan Chase, chairperson

of the board of Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan said. "The

Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan take pride in offering

networking, mentoring and affordable business training to women

both starting a business and to those expanding their business."



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For more information, contact:



Bob Ellis

Economic and Co-operative Development

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-1691



Gail Quinney

Women's Secretariat

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-2340