Participants will learn about Local Labour Market Trends and Self-Employment Options

West Prince Ventures Ltd. is inviting Islanders interested in entrepreneurship to attend upcoming forums to learn more about this exciting career option. Fisheries and Oceans Minister Gail Shea, on behalf of ACOA Minister Rob Moore, and Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allen Roach today announced federal and provincial support for the organization which is currently finalizing plans for the March sessions.

The Youth Entrepreneurship Forum titled, “Strength in YOUth, Celebrating Traditions... Creating Opportunities!” is scheduled for March 12, at the Rodd Mill River Resort. Youth will have an opportunity to explore the evolution of entrepreneurship on PEI and foster an exchange of ideas about Prince Edward Island's entrepreneurial heritage and brainstorm about future business ideas.

The Seniors Entrepreneurship Forum, scheduled for the same location, will be held March 19. The Seniors Forum is designed specifically for area residents 50+ and will provide information on local labour market trends and opportunities for self employment.

Quick Facts

• The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, is contributing $30,980 to West Prince Ventures Ltd. for the organization to carry out the entrepreneurship forums.

• The Government of Prince Edward Island will contribute $10,000 from the PEI 2014 Fund, and $12,500 from the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning, through Innovation PEI.

• West Prince Ventures Ltd. is a non-profit community development organization and is recognized as one of 41 Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) in Atlantic Canada.

• Located in the Alberton Rural Action Centre, the organization works with all levels of government and private sector to meet the needs of small business in Western PEI.

Quotes

“Our Government continues to help entrepreneurs create new companies and realize the business potential of their ideas. I am pleased to announce our support, through ACOA, for West Prince Ventures Ltd. as they coordinate Entrepreneurship Forums for both youth and seniors in Western PEI.”

The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)

“By encouraging Islanders to explore entrepreneurship, we will unlock the potential of our rural communities. I am confident many of our seniors and young people will find they have the skills and drive needed to succeed as business people.”

The Honourable Allen Roach, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning

“CBDC West Prince Ventures Limited, in conjunction with our funding partners and community sponsors, is pleased to host the 4th Annual Youth Entrepreneurs Forum and for the first time a 50plus Forum for this emerging group of new entrepreneurs. The forums will provide participants with valuable information and opportunities within their communities and allow them to explore their entrepreneurial spirit.”

Ms. Maxine Rennie, Executive Director, West Prince Ventures Ltd.

Associated Links

www.cbdc.ca

www.pei2014.ca