Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – The Clarence Campeau Development Fund (the Fund) and the Province of Saskatchewan (the Province) have signed an Emergency Pandemic Support Agreement to support Métis economic development during COVID-19, totaling $1.6 Million.
The agreement provides essential funding to the main operations that will allow the Fund to maintain programming and services through to April 30, 2021. The Fund stimulates economic development activities of Métis people and communities in Saskatchewan by providing equity for businesses, support to community economic development initiatives, and assistance for the development of the management skills of new and existing business owners and entrepreneurs.
“Now more than ever, Métis entrepreneurs need access to capital and support services”, said Pam Larson, Chief Executive Offer. “We’re elated to be able to secure funding in a time of uncertainty and ambiguity for our clients.”
“The funding provided by the Government of Saskatchewan will allow the CCDF to continue to do great work at the community level, particularly in the area of economic development within the Métis community. During these challenging times, this investment will further support the development of small businesses and local entrepreneurship in Saskatchewan, a key aspect of our provincial economy and pandemic recovery plan,” said Lori Carr, Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs.
The Fund’s primary source of revenue, based on government casino earnings, is expected to decline significantly in the Province over the next year due to coronavirus impacts. The Emergency Pandemic Support agreement ensures a commitment to Métis economic development in the Province of Saskatchewan. “We are pleased to see the commitment this government has to the Métis people of our Province,” states Larson.
Métis entrepreneurship is expected to play a key role in Saskatchewan’s economic recovery. For every dollar ($1) invested by the Fund in Métis entrepreneurs and communities, $15.22 is returned to the Province in socioeconomic benefits through improvements in living standards, health, sports and leisure, rising employment, increased educational opportunities, and direct financial benefit.
“By expanding the provincial tax base to creating and retaining jobs, Métis economic development is a critical component of economic well-being and improving quality of life in the Province of Saskatchewan,” remarks Pam Larson, Chief Executive Officer.
About the Clarence Campeau Development Fund
The objective of the Fund is to stimulate economic development activities of Métis people and communities. As the first stop for Métis entrepreneurs and communities in Saskatchewan, we leverage relationships with funding partners, industry, and communities to meet the evolving needs of Métis businesses.
For more information about the Clarence Campeau Development Fund, please contact:
Pam Larson, Chief Executive Officer
P: 306-657-4870 | E: pam@clarencecampeau.com | www.clarencecampeau.com