The Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Kootenay was honoured last week with a Minister's Award for Excellence and Innovation for providing employment opportunities to entrepreneurs with disabilities. The award was presented by the Honourable Hedy Fry, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration on behalf of the Honourable Dr. Rey D. Pagtakhan, Minister of Western Economic Diversification.

The Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Kootenay received the award for its Internet Business Development for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program. Participants with disabilities obtain training in Web design and business management to create their own Web-store in The Virtual Mall (www.virtualmall.ca), where they sell art and gifts from artisans in their region on commission. The on-line course is accredited through Selkirk College.

"Western Economic Diversification Canada is helping communities find local solutions for local challenges and provide opportunities for the future," said Dr. Fry. "This innovative program helps entrepreneurs with disabilities in British Columbia learn valuable business skills, while at the same time linking local artisans with global markets. It is a wonderful example of how Western Economic Diversification Canada and Community Futures Development Corporations are partnering to build a 21st century economy."

"We are thrilled to receive this recognition from our funding partners in Western Economic Diversification Canada," said Kay Ryan, Project Coordinator for Community Futures of Central Kootenay. "Their support has helped us expand the program both in our region and into other areas of the province."

Community Futures Development Corporations assist communities in rural Canada to develop and implement innovative strategies for strengthening local economies. Administered by local volunteer boards, Community Futures are part of Western Economic Diversification Canada's Business Service Network.

"We believe strongly that local decision-making is key to developing economic potential and ensuring sustainable growth in communities," said Ken White, Chair of the Community Futures Development Association of B.C., the association representing the 34 British Columbia Community Futures offices. "The Virtual Mall is a fine example of how we're meeting our goals."

Western Economic Diversification Canada is the federal department mandated to support economic diversification in communities across Western Canada through activities that promote and assist Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Communities.

For additional information, contact:

Susan Schooley
Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Vancouver, BC
Tel: (604) 666-1318

Jennifer Hatten
Office of the Honourable
Dr. Hedy Fry, P.C., M.P.
(604) 666-0651