Investment Future Forum, the first event of its kind in Saskatchewan, is an opportunity for carefully selected new and expanding business ventures to present themselves to interested investors. It will be held April 10th and 11th at the Delta Bessborough in Saskatoon.

Twenty two start-up and growth companies will make presentations to investors, venture capital companies and financial institution representatives from across Canada. The "investee" companies represent a number of key sectors including Agriculture, Biotech, Information Technology, Environment, Renewable Energy and Tourism.

The event is highlighted by some of the nation's top speakers in the area of investment attraction, including keynote speaker Leonard Brody (CEO of IPREO and co-author of Innovation Nation: From Java to Jurassic Park), as well as plenary speakers Richard Prytula (TechnoCap Inc.), Kirk Falconer (Macdonald & Associates) and Dan Gatti (BigBangwidth).

Two Canadian companies, Pyxis Genomics Canada and Lombard Life Sciences will each take the stage at the event to announce plans for local investment and resulting new business and employment opportunities.

"Investment Future Forum has attracted the interest and attention of both business and investors," Crown Investments Corporation (CIC) Minister Maynard Sonntag said. "As a vehicle for investment opportunity, and resulting economic growth, we are confident this event will be the first of many."

"Saskatchewan was the only province in Western Canada to experience stepped-up venture capital investment this past year," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Such venture capital is key to the continued growth of our vibrant economy, and this Forum is an excellent opportunity to encourage and expand that investment."

Investment Future Forum is being co-sponsored by CIC and Saskatchewan Industry and Resources. For more information visit the web site at www.futureforum.ca or call (306) 787-7200.

For More Information, Contact:

Shelley Legin
Crown Investments Corporation
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-2659

Bob Ellis
Industry and Resources
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-8277