We’re excited and proud to celebrate our 10th Anniversary! On February 20, 1996, The Business Link turned on its phones and opened its doors in Edmonton. From Day One, our prime focus was to provide accurate, timely business information and services to Alberta entrepreneurs. And we haven’t stopped since!

Ten years later, thanks to the support of the Government of Canada

and the Government of Alberta, we’re still dedicated to providing the best service to you as you start or grow your business in Alberta.

In honour of our 10th Anniversary, we've created a fresh, new look for E-News!, including a "Top 10" list that we'll provide each issue for the next 12 months. Be sure to take advantage of our new and exciting service offerings throughout 2006 as we acknowledge our 10 Years of Service Excellence!

Click here for a special message from General Manager, Rodger Cole.

Forty-four Alberta businesses were recognized as finalists in the 2006 Alberta Business Awards of Distinction. These awards recognize excellence in the following categories: Aboriginal Relations, Diversity in the Workplace, Employer of People with Disabilities, Employer of Youth, Ethics in Business, Export, First Nation's-owned Business, Learning in the Workplace, Marketing, Safety in the Workplace, Small Business, Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneur and Outstanding Achievement. All finalists are also eligible to receive the Premier's Award of Distinction. The awards will be presented at a gala banquet, February 22, 2006, at the Hyatt Regency Calgary. More information is available at www.abbusinessawards.ab.ca.

Business Courses Offered Through YEBDC
The Yellowhead East Business Development Corporation is offering a variety of business and computer courses throughout the month of February in Onoway, Barrhead, Whitecourt, and Mayerthorpe.

For more information on these courses or to pre-register, call the Sangudo office at (780) 785-2900 or 1-800-556-0328 or visit the YEBDC website at www.yebdc.ab.ca.

"Inspirational", "motivating", "hilarious", and "informative" - A few of the words that participants have used to describe the Networking Sessions hosted since November 2005 by The Business Link's Alberta Aboriginal Business Service Network (Alberta ABSN).

Doing well in small business requires the support and guidance of others. Held throughout the province, the Networking Sessions have connected the public to Aboriginal small business owners who are excelling in their field. During the sessions, they have shared their inspirational business development stories.

To learn more about many of these entrepreneurs, please visit "Success Stories" on the Alberta ABSN website.

Why sell to the U.S. Government?
Securing U.S. government contracts offer profitability and a stable and reliable source of income, including options to extend contracts over several years. The U.S. government's fiscal year-end is September 30th and there is typically widespread spending during the last quarter. This means many substantial tenders will surface from July through September. Canadian companies have found that successful performance on U.S. government contracts can add credibility to their firm's reputation among U.S. private sector clients, and attract new commercial business.