The Honourable Stephen Owen, Secretary of State (Western Economic Diversification Canada) (Indian Affairs and Northern Development) announced today $67,500 in funding for a strategic business analysis of a popular rural gathering place. The Keystone Agricultural and Recreation Centre a non-profit organization, will conduct the analysis and use the results to formulate a business plan for the facility.

"The Keystone Centre is considered a cornerstone of Brandon's economy and Western Economic Diversification Canada is pleased to support a project that will encourage its long-term viability," said Owen. "Residents should be proud of this multi-functional facility which brings such an incredible array of visitors to the area. The Keystone Centre is more than a building, it's a symbol of rural independence that should be preserved and cherished."

The Keystone Centre is the largest, multi-use facility in Manitoba, outside of Winnipeg and it continues to play an important role in attracting events and conventions to Brandon and the surrounding area. The strategic business analysis will build on its past success and will help determine its future direction.

"The Keystone Centre is a very important part of Brandon and continues to add value to this community, " said Patty Griffith, General Manager, Keystone Centre. "The business analysis is the next very important step towards revitalizing the facility, "We hope to determine the future of the Keystone Centre and forge ahead with the development of the facility."

The business analysis will have three key areas of focus:

• analysis of the economic impact of the Centre on Brandon, surrounding region and the Province of Manitoba;
• exploration of various options, both short and long-term, for use of the Keystone lands and the impacts of such usage; and,
• analysis of the key target markets of the Centre, specifically the role of the center, its economic benefits, governance and market position issues.

The Keystone Centre, located in the heart of Brandon, opened in the 1970's as an agricultural center and has evolved into a recreation and major events center. Receiving over 2 million guests each year, it is considered one of the largest entertainment, agriculture and recreation complexes in Canada. The Keystone Arena, which is located on site, seats 5000 and is host to the Brandon Wheat Kings WHL franchise. Also located on site, the Brandon Curling Club was host to the 1994 Scott Tournament of Hearts and the 1997 Olympic Curling Trials. The Centre is also home to the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba who host the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair along with two other significant agricultural and entertainment events each year.

Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is a department of the Government of Canada that works in partnership with the provinces, industry associations and communities to stimulate and encourage diversification of the western economy, as well as to represent the interests of the West in Ottawa.

Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2003 federal budget.

For additional information, contact:

Jacquie Sippola
Communications Officer
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Winnipeg, Manitoba
(204) 983-0280