Profiles of Capital Providers

Western Economic Diversification Canada

Contacts

Dale Johnston
Senior Policy Analyst
Trade and Investment Division
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Tel: 204-983-2124
E-mail: dale.johnston@wd.gc.ca
Web site: www.wd.gc.ca

Department Mandate

Western Economic Diversification Canada's (WD) mandate is to promote the development and diversification of the economy of Western Canada and advance the interests of the West in national economic policy. This mandate is delivered primarily through grants and contributions programs.

WD works to achieve this mandate through partnerships with the private sector, other levels of government, academic and financial institutions, as well as research centres, to maximize investment in Western Canada and to create alternative sources of funding for commercial ventures.

Departmental Priorities

WD has three key priorities that include a wide range of initiatives: www.wd.gc.ca

1. Innovation
2. Community Economic Development
3. Entrepreneurship

Products and Services

In relation to businesses/entrepreneurs, WD provides indirect funding for businesses through a network of community and industry-based organizations that offer small loans or assist with access to small business financing. www.wd.gc.ca/eng/99.asp

Organizations such as the Canada Manitoba Business Service Centre offer seminars and assist small business and new entrepreneurs acquire skills and direct them to resources they need to succeed in the market place.