News Release

November 3, 2006

Regional Economic and Co-operative Development - 779

PROVINCE CELEBRATES JOB CREATION IN RURAL SASKATCHEWAN

The Ituna Economic Development Co-operative in Ituna, the Langenburg Business
Loans Co-operative and the Yellowhead Regional Economic Development Authority
in Langenburg were recognized at special ceremonies today for their efforts in
creating and maintaining jobs in rural Saskatchewan through the province's
Small Business Loans Association (SBLA) program.

"On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I'd like to thank these
organizations for their dedication and hard work, which have helped grow the
provincial economy and improve the quality of life in this region," Deputy
Premier and Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Clay Serby
said. "These organizations should be commended for their tremendous work, the
result of which is the creation and maintenance of 48 jobs in the Ituna region
and 122 jobs in the Langenburg region."

Under the SBLA program, the Government of Saskatchewan provides funding of up
to $200,000 to community-operated SBLA organizations. In turn, the SBLAs use
the line of credit to make loans of up to $15,000 to new and existing
businesses.

There are currently 238 active SBLAs in the province. Community-based interest
groups, co-operatives, corporations, rural development corporations and
Regional Economic Development Authorities can form SBLAs – most of which are
located in rural areas.

"This government is committed to making life better for the average
Saskatchewan family and building a stronger economy where everyone benefits,"
Serby said. "The SBLA program is tailored to meet the needs of small business
owners, particularly in rural areas, by providing accessible loans and
encouraging entrepreneurial growth throughout the province. Small businesses
diversify the economy, create jobs, support families and communities and
contribute greatly to the high quality of life for which Saskatchewan is
known."

Since the inception of the SBLA program in 1989, more than $57 million has
been loaned to more than 8,500 new and existing businesses. As a direct result
of this activity, more than 13,000 jobs have been created or maintained.

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For More Information, Contact:

Donna Rehirchuk
Regional Economic and Co-operative
Development
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email:
drehirchuk@agr.gov.sk.ca

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