July 22, 2015 – Alberton, PEI – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Access to business expertise is more accessible in rural Prince Edward Island, thanks to the PEI Association of Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs). With assistance from the Government of Canada, the organization is now offering the Consultant Advisory Services (CAS) program to support small businesses across the Island.
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA), today joined Ms. Maxine Rennie, Executive Director of the PEI Association of CBDCs, to announce federal support for the program.
The CAS program was launched in 2013 as a pilot program to enable eligible small businesses, primarily in rural parts of the province, to engage consultants for professional services and to gain business expertise. An independent evaluation found the pilot program to be successful, and the PEI Association of CBDCs is now committed to delivering the initiative until March 2017.
Quick Facts:
- The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, is providing a $300,150 contribution to the PEI Association of CBDCs for this project.
- The PEI Association of CBDCs is a non-profit organization that works in cooperation with the private sector and government to assist with the creation of new businesses and in the maintenance, expansion and modernization of existing businesses by providing financial and business counselling services.
- The CAS program allows entrepreneurs to develop expertise in areas such as business diagnostic assessments, business management skills development, market readiness and export potential, productivity improvement and business efficiency.
Quotes:
“Our Government remains committed to jobs, growth and prosperity, and to supporting the entrepreneurs who work tirelessly to keep our economy growing. I am pleased to announce federal support for the PEI Association of CBDCs, as they expand their program offerings to ensure the viability of Island businesses.”
- The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
“We are very pleased to deliver the CAS Program, to provide entrepreneurs access to professional services and gain business expertise. CBDCs are committed to the development and growth of small business across PEI and this program is a great opportunity for our Island entrepreneurs.”
- Maxine Rennie, Executive Director of the PEI Association of CBDCs
Associated Links:
• PEI CBDCs
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Rob Moore
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Katie MacNevin
ACOA PEI and Tourism
902-940-0801
Maxine Rennie
Executive Director
PEI Association of CBDCs
902-853-3636
