April 09, 2010
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Whitecap Development Corporation (WDC) will assess the potential to capture Industrial and Regional Benefits (IRB) with the establishment of an industrial park on Whitecap Dakota First Nation.
The Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification and Member of Parliament for Blackstrap, announced funding to assist WDC in exploring the potential to develop an industrial park which would focus on opportunities in the aerospace and defence industry.
“Today’s investment demonstrates our Government’s continued support in helping Aboriginal communities develop current and future businesses,” said Minister Yelich.
Funding for this project will assist WDC in hiring a qualified consultant to conduct a technical assessment of a potential industrial park. This work will assist prospective partners and stakeholders with immediate business opportunities and, if successful, could create 50 new jobs and ten new businesses on the Whitecap Dakota First Nation.
“Whitecap proposes to diversify its economy by establishing a business park and attracting manufacturing ventures,” said Darcy Bear, Chief of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation. “Western Economic Diversification Canada’s funding will assist in bringing new business opportunities and new jobs to the area.”
An investment of $92,000 is provided by Western Economic Diversification Canada under the Western Diversification Program. The Whitecap Development Corporation will provide $58,000.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and represents the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.
For additional information, contact:
Lisa Hutniak
Minister’s Office
Western Economic Diversification
Lisa.Hutniak@wd-deo.gc.ca
Darrell Balkwill
Chief Economic Officer
Whitecap Development Corporation
(306) 477-0908
WD Toll-Free Number:1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1 877 303-3388
WD Website: www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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