Opportunities North Fosters Investment and Partnerships

September 12, 2008

WHITEHORSE - Opportunities North 2008, a pan-Northern business and investment conference, will take place in Whitehorse Sept. 30 to Oct. 3.

“The Opportunities North economic development forum is of increasing importance as the North achieves prominence nationally and internationally thanks to sovereignty issues, mega projects like the Alaska Highway Pipeline Project and mineral exploration and development,” Premier Dennis Fentie said. “We are continuing to work closely with the business community to maximize benefit for Yukoners, investors and visitors.”
On a three-year rotation with Alberta and the Northwest Territories, for the second time, Yukon will host its northern partners.

“The Yukon Chamber of Commerce is very pleased with the perfect timing of this event,” conference chair Rob McIntyre said. “The Yukon economy has grown significantly since the 2005 conference and this forum provides an important opportunity for the northwest region to dialogue on current events, projects, challenges and opportunities regarding investment and economic development.”

The three chambers: the Yukon Chamber of Commerce, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce of the Northwest Territories, have agreed to coordinate a triennial rotation for conferences promoting business opportunities in the North.

The Yukon Chamber of Commerce is organizing the conference again this year, along with a committee representing leading Yukon businesses. Financial support has been provided by both the Government of Yukon as well as the private sector. The Yukon government is contributing trade fair booth sponsorships for the event, led by a $50,000 platinum sponsorship from the Department of Economic Development.

Conference speakers will address topics such as a vision for Yukon’s future, the Alaska Pipeline Project, emerging investment opportunities with Yukon First Nations, mining and tourism, and Yukon’s energy future.

Northwest businesses and governments will be setting up displays for the trade show portion of the conference.

For detailed information about the conference, the program and how to register visit www.opportunitiesnorth.com.

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Contact:
Rob McIntyre
Conference Chairman
Yukon Chamber of Commerce
Phone: (867) 667-2000
ycc@yukonchamber.com