Q.  I'm under the age of 34 and have a great idea for a business.  Is there financial help available to me?

A.  Absolutely.  Under the Youth Opportunities Unleashed (YOU) program, applicants between the ages of 18 and 34 can apply for a small business loan to help with their start-up costs.  Not only that, but the YOU program also offers entrepreneurial training, and mentorship, as well.  For more information on the YOU program and how it can help you, check out our website:  YOU

*Note: if you're over 34, don't worry.  The Small Business Loans Association can help you get your feet off the ground.  Follow this link for more information:  SBLA

Q.  How can I learn about the biofuels initiative in Saskatchewan?

A.  As part of the biofuels initiative, SaskBIO was created to provide an opportunity for farmers and communities to participate in value-added biofuel production in Saskatchewan through investment ownership in biofuels facilities.  The program will ensure that Saskatchewan is an attractive jurisdiction in which to build a sustainable biofuels industry.

For more information on the program and how to apply, check out this website at www.EI.gov.sk.ca/SaskBio.

For other information on the biofuels initiative, visit:   

• Saskatchewan Government's Biofuels page:  http://www.saskatchewan.ca/biofuels/
• Government of Canada's Alternative Fuel Information Portal:  http://www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/transportation/overview.cfm?attr=12

Q.  What is a co-operative, and how can I get involved in one?

A.  The International Co-operative Alliance (ICA), which represents co-operatives around the world, defines a co-operative as:

"An autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically controlled enterprise."

More information on co-operatives and community involvement can be found at: http://www.EI.gov.sk.ca/Co-operative_Development

Q.  Can you provide me with information about various Saskatchewan industries?

A.  The government does not maintain comprehensive lists of firms involved in specific Saskatchewan industries. However, we may be able to assist you by directing you to the appropriate industry association or organization. Saskatchewan Enterprise and Innovation does maintain a Saskatchewan Manufacturers Guide, which lists all the firms involved in the province's various manufacturing industries. A searchable version of the Manufacturers Guide is available on the ministry's web site. The Saskatchewan Bureau of Statistics also has available information regarding employment within various economic sectors in the province.

Q.  How can I register my company in the Saskatchewan Manufacturers Guide? 

A.  Enterprise and Innovation maintains a Saskatchewan Manufacturers Guide, which lists all firms in the province involved in the manufacturing and selling of products. The guide is available for searching, download or viewing on the department's web site. Saskatchewan firms wishing to be listed in the Manufacturers Guide, or wanting to update their company information, may contact the ministry's Business Development Unit.

Q.  What investment opportunities are available in Saskatchewan?

A.  Saskatchewan has a wealth of business and investment opportunities for new or expanding businesses, especially in the areas of agri-value processing and manufacturing, primary forestry and wood products, advanced technology, energy, mining, and tourism and cultural industries. We also have vibrant retail and service sectors. There are a variety of organizations that can help you identify opportunities, including the Canada-Saskatchewan Business Service Centre, and the regional offices of Saskatchewan Enterprise and Innovation. Municipal offices of individual communities will also be glad to assist you in your business planning.