GOVERNMENT FOCUSES ON JOB CREATION WITH ENHANCED BUSINESS IMMIGRATION

The Government of Saskatchewan has unveiled new business immigration streams that will help grow the economy and create jobs. These new initiatives are key elements of the government's new immigration strategy.

"Our new immigration initiative acknowledges the importance of entrepreneurship by building bridges between potential residents of Saskatchewan and the industries and businesses that will benefit from their investment and skills," Minister responsible for Immigration Rob Norris said.

Developed in consultation with more than 300 stakeholders across the province, this new initiative focuses on attracting investment and entrepreneurs to help create jobs and opportunities for Saskatchewan people.

In 2008-09, 109 entrepreneurial immigrants were nominated to come to Saskatchewan. Their business investments are expected to create more than 400 jobs in the province. The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) will nominate 250 immigrants under the entrepreneurship category over the next two years, leading to the creation of approximately 900 jobs.

As part of the government's new initiative, the SINP will feature new ‘entrepreneur streams,' including a program to foster immigrant entrepreneur participation in First Nations and Métis-owned businesses.

Other streams will focus on participation in science and technology-based companies and the farming industry. The new entrepreneur programs will also link businesses whose current owners are soon to retire with immigrants who have business ownership talent.

In order to better respond to the immigration needs of Saskatoon and area, a new SINP service hub will be established in the city, with Entrepreneur Program and Settlement staff relocating from Regina to Saskatoon.

"We're working to sustain our economic momentum and secure Saskatchewan's position as a leader in Canada and around the world," Norris said. "By welcoming newcomers who are ready to invest in Saskatchewan businesses, we are investing in our province's future."

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For more information, contact:

Herman Hulshof
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-9715
Cell: 306-526-6815