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For Release
August 19, 2005

Northern British Columbia Communities Welcome New Export Opportunities

Prince George, B.C. – The Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport) announced an investment of $265,000 for Export North today, enabling Northern British Columbia businesses to trade globally.

The investment will establish a three year enhanced export services program that will allow Northern British Columbian businesses to improve their export capacity and increase their international sales.

"To fully realize their economic potential, businesses need to address the challenges and opportunities of exporting," said Minister Owen. "Partnerships like Export North are making this happen. The benefits of strong exports from B.C.'s northern communities will have a positive impact across the province."

"Federal assistance has enabled regional groups to come together and build stronger relationships," said Gerry Offet, president of Initiatives Prince George.

Export North is a partnership of twelve economic development agencies in Northern British Columbia, the Government of Canada, and the Province of B.C. Launched in 2002, Export North helps create economic growth and diversification by assisting firms to access new markets and become "export-ready."

Some of Export North's services include business counseling, one-on-one training, export plan review, local area seminars, trade partner liaison, market entry assistance, advanced market intelligence, and trade mission preparation.

In 2004, Export North support led to $3,760,000 in additional sales, $1,050,000 in new investments, and 57 new jobs in the communities it serves.

Western Economic Diversification Canada is the federal department mandated to support economic diversification in communities across Western Canada, through activities that promote and assist Sustainable Communities, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Funding for this project was provided for in Budget 2005.

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