Small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in northwestern Alberta and northeastern British Columbia can get their business questions answered at the Government of Canada Small Business Info-Fair on Friday, October 18, 2002.

The Info-Fair, being held at the Grande Prairie Inn, showcases programs and services offered by the federal government that address the needs of existing and emerging small businesses. Federal officials responsible for these programs will be on hand to discuss business issues and demonstrate services related to: getting started, access to financing, technology access, strategic business information and export readiness. The Info-Fair includes 27 exhibitors and features practical information seminars on women in business, selling to government, e?commerce and other business-related topics.

"Small business is the key to economic growth and job creation. Recent statistics indicate there are over 300,000 small businesses in Alberta. That number alone indicates the importance of this event," explained Stephen Owen, Secretary of State (Western Economic Diversification) (Indian Affairs and Northern Development). "The information that our exhibitors and seminar leaders provide is both essential and timely."

"Across the province, the number of entrepreneurs grew by 22 per cent over the last five years. That's more than 13,000 new business owners every year," noted Oryssia Lennie, Deputy Minister for Western Economic Diversification. "By offering important information, the Government of Canada can do its part to assist in the continuing growth and success of Western Canada's economy."

Small Business Info-Fairs are an initiative of the Industry Portfolio, comprised of the departments and agencies for which Allan Rock, Minister of Industry, is responsible. In Western Canada, these events are organized by Western Economic Diversification Canada and are sponsored by the Business Development Bank of Canada.

Hundreds of small business owners and prospective entrepreneurs are expected to take advantage of the unique opportunity offered by the Info-Fair. The event is free-of-charge and runs from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

For additional information, contact:

Barb Steele
Communications Officer
Alberta Region
Consultation, Marketing & Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
(780) 495-4982
(780) 717-3750 - cell