The 2010 Saskatchewan Conference on Business provided 120 business and chamber leaders with the opportunity to talk, not only about the issues they face today, but also about the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
The theme of the 2010 Conference on Business was “Capture Our Potential” and an exciting lineup of presenters focused on emerging private sector opportunities, higher education, and the potential of our Aboriginal population. A special panel of the province’s leading business observers also engaged in a lively and entertaining discussion on what our province needs to do to capture its potential.
At the final session of the Conference, the Chamber was pleased to once again provide members with an opportunity to hear from Premier Brad Wall. The Premier was joined by a panel of young entrepreneurs who discussed what the future holds for Saskatchewan’s emerging businesses and business leaders.
“While it is important to remember where Saskatchewan has come from, the last few year have permanently changed the landscape of our province,” said Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce CEO Steve McLellan. “This was a great opportunity to gain an understanding of where we are heading, and who will make up our future business community.”
At the Chair’s Dinner, which occurs annually in conjunction with the Conference, the Saskatchewan Chamber’s new Chair Richard Ahenakew was sworn into office.
Ahenakew is the general manager of Northern Lights Casino in Prince Albert, one of the six casinos operated by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority. He is also a member of the Ahtalkakoop First Nation and is the first First Nations Chair to lead the Provincial Chamber in its 90 year history.
“We are very excited to have Richard as our new Chair,” added McLellan. “His commitment to the development and promotion of First Nations businesses and employees will help the Chamber’s quest to ensure sustainable and strategic growth in our province.”
Nevertheless, the Conference was not all fun and games; Chamber members were also put to work. The membership approved 25 policy resolutions that the Saskatchewan Chamber will advocate for in the coming year.
The new Chamber policies address everything from rental property tax and greenhouse gas regulations to immigration and workplace safety. The goal of each policy recommendation is to make Saskatchewan more attractive for businesses.
A complete list of the Saskatchewan Chamber’s 2010 policy resolutions is available at www.saskchamber.com.
“In closing, I would like to offer a big thank you to the Prince Albert and District Chamber of Commerce and the entire community for their wonderful hospitality and assistance,” concluded McLellan. “It was a great event.”
