News release

Growing the Business Spirit in Cape Breton

Education and Culture (to July 1999)

Nurturing new business ventures will be the focus of a conference on Friday and Saturday, June 25-26, at the Nova Scotia Community College, Marconi Campus, in Sydney.

Called Growing the Entrepreneurial Spirit, this conference aims to build on the entrepreneurial skills of local residents. It is hosted by Human Resources Development Canada.

Registrations are still being accepted by phone at 1-800-590-8481, or on campus on Friday morning. The registration fee is $30, or $10 per person for group bookings. This fee includes luncheons, a banquet, a trade show and all sessions.

"Entrepreneurship is not a new idea here, but many people are unaware of the resources available to them," said Alice Almond of Human Resources Development Canada in North Sydney. "This conference offers information to those who wish to start a new business, or give others who are more established the opportunity to network and gain new contacts."

Local entrepreneurs will facilitate workshops, give speeches and attend the trade show. Terry Kelly, a musician, speaker, and entrepreneur, will share his experiences and inspiring story at the Saturday luncheon. The Friday evening keynote speech will be given by Sydney entrepreneur Ken Jardine, owner of SCUBA Tech Ltd. Chris Griffiths, an entrepreneur from St. John's, will give the opening speech on Friday morning.

Other Sydney entrepreneurs facilitating workshops include:
Marjorie Fougere of Finishing Touch Decorating; Matthew Georghiou of MediaSpark; Joella Foulds of Rave Entertainment; and Mary Jane MacPhail of M.J. Naturals.

This conference is sponsored by Human Resources Development Canada, the Cape Breton Post and radio stations CJCB and K94.