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Good morning everyone. I'm pleased to provide details today about the Government of Canada's investments in two economic development projects in Yukon. These investments demonstrate this government's commitment to support economic development in the North.

The first investment involves a unique and valuable partnership known as the Yukon Business Development Project. This project is led by the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce with support from the territory, the Yukon Technology Innovation Centre and the National Research Council. Its goal is to provide targeted support - such as human resources and business advice - to local technology companies on the verge of expansion. The Government of Canada recognizes that these types of companies drive economic growth and create employment opportunities. To support the Project, this government has allotted more than $190,000 through the Community Adjustment Fund - a two-year program established earlier this year under Canada's Economic Action Plan.

The Yukon Business Development Project matches promising firms with business advisory boards - teams of seasoned men and women with appropriate expertise. Members of an advisory board work directly with a growing business for up to one year, providing guidance and conducting audits. I'm convinced that this type of mentoring and support will help budding Yukon businesses grow and prosper.

The second investment also strives to support the growth of Yukon businesses through partnerships and networking opportunities. I am pleased to announce that the Government of Canada has invested more than $140,000 in a business conference organized by the Yukon Indian Development Corporation – the Foundations Economic Conference.

Later this month, the second Foundations Economic Conference will bring together Yukon entrepreneurs and representatives of First Nations and governments to discuss how to make the most of the region's business opportunities. The theme of the conference - Strengthening Today's First Nations' Businesses and Supporting Tomorrow's - neatly captures the valuable goal of the event. The three-day conference features knowledgeable experts and important panel discussions on how to overcome business challenges in the North.

These investments demonstrate this government's determination to foster economic growth in the North. The 2008 Speech from the Throne called for a stand-alone development agency for Canada's North; Budget 2009 reaffirmed this commitment by allocating $50 million over five years to fund the new agency. Launched last month, CanNor has already invested in projects in each territory. This new agency will administer federal programs devoted to Northern economic development, including those involved in today's announcement.

I encourage Yukoners and all Northerners to learn more about CanNor and make the most of the wealth of economic opportunities emerging across the Territories. As a long-time resident of Whitehorse, I'm proud to see this government take action to create a stronger, more prosperous North. Thank you.