Today marks the fifth anniversary of the official grand opening for the Saskatoon office of Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. (W.E.). The organization provides self-employment and entrepreneurial services to women business owners.

"WD is pleased to be partnering with W.E. in the quest to help women entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan attain success," said Ron J. Duhamel, Secretary of State for Western Economic Diversification. "Through the commitment and dedication of W.E. volunteers and staff, women entrepreneurs are given support, guidance and the tools to starting or building a healthy business. W.E.'s assistance in reducing the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs provides them with greater opportunity to participate fully in the Western Canadian economy."

The Women's Enterprise Initiative (WEI) program, which started in 1994, is designed to promote the concept of entrepreneurship as a career option to women, as well as identify and fill service and financing gaps that women entrepreneurs often face.

"Self employment and entrepreneurship have experienced a boom in Canada over the past two decades, and women are playing an ever increasing role," added Mr. Duhamel.

In 1998 Statistics Canada reported that between 1991 and 1996, there was a 46 per cent increase in the number of women-owned businesses in Canada. Six years ago, women owned about 26 per cent of Saskatchewan businesses, a 10 per cent increase from 1991.

"We know that our organization has made a difference in the lives of women entrepreneurs, who are a vital part of our economy," said W.E. Board Chair Jan Ursu. "It is imperative that we continue to be visible, creative and flexible as we respond to the business needs of Saskatchewan women by providing relevant and new programs and services. Ursu added, "Our annual conferences also provide a dynamic venue for the essential networking and mentoring that takes place among successful business people."

W.E. is a non-profit member organization committed to helping women succeed in business. The organization, led by a board of eight volunteers, provides a multitude of services, including guidance to women in the planning and start-up stages of business development and those operating their own businesses. Entrepreneurs can also receive assistance with developing business plans and accessing market research. Its 11-member staff also helps women access financing for their business either through mainstream lenders or the WEI loan funds.

Since opening in 1995 W.E. has responded to over 13,500 inquiries, conducted over 6,300 business advisory appointments and provided 120 loans worth more than $3.5 million. The organization has 576 members, an office in Regina and six chapters in communities across the province.

On Sept. 22, a 5th anniversary celebration will be held at the Radisson Hotel in Saskatoon. The event begins with a trade show at 10:30 a.m. and continues with a luncheon and afternoon workshop.

"This celebration is our way of saying thank you to all our supporters, partners, clients and members over the last five years," said Laura Small, Executive Director, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan. "We invite the business community to join us, as throughout the day we will celebrate our successes and the successes of women entrepreneurs, while providing a learning opportunity for everyone attending."

For additional information, contact:

Joanne Mysak
Manager, Consultations, Marketing and Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
(306) 975-5942

Laura Small
Executive Director
Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
(306) 477-7173