CALL FOR PROPOSALS RELEASED FOR THE SASKSMART INNOVATIONS FUND

Community literacy across the province will again be supported by the SaskSmart Innovations Fund in 2007-08.  The Saskatchewan Literacy Commission released the Call for Proposals today for a new year of funding.  The application deadline is May 31, 2007.

The SaskSmart Innovations Fund assists communities in designing and implementing local Community Literacy Plans for family and workplace literacy.  This year approximately $900,000 has been allocated to the fund to help communities address literacy challenges in Saskatchewan.

Two types of funding are available through the SaskSmart Innovations Fund – grant funding for assistance on the development of Community Literacy Plans, or contract funding for the implementation of Community Literacy Plans in 2007-08. 

“Literacy and life-long learning provide individuals with the skills they need for the life they want,” Minister responsible for Literacy Deb Higgins said.  “The SaskSmart Innovations Fund engages communities in addressing local literacy needs that will build an even better future for communities, businesses and families right here in Saskatchewan.”

“Communities create a shared vision for literacy by accessing funding through the SaskSmart Innovations Fund for Community Literacy Plans,” Saskatchewan Literacy Commissioner Dr. Margaret Lipp said.  “Members of a community implement a community-based response to local literacy needs by marshalling local resources and engaging local volunteers to provide literacy services and supports.”

Last year, 24 communities received funding for the development and implementation of Community Literacy Plans from the SaskSmart Innovations Fund.  For further information on the SaskSmart Innovations Fund and this year’s call for proposals, call 306-787-2514 or visit the website at www.sasksmart.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Caroline MacMurchy
Saskatchewan Literacy Commission
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2663
Email: cmacmurchy@slc.gov.sk.ca