Manitoba's annual rural business forum to promote
entrepreneurship, innovation, business and community development
in rural communities will be rebranded Capturing Opportunities to
reflect innovation in the province's agricultural sector,
Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk
said today.

"Previously called Rural Forum, this annual spring conference is
taking on a higher profile for entrepreneurship as well as
creative business, community and value-added product
development," said Wowchuk. "The new focus will provide
Manitobans the chance to discover business and investment
opportunities, establish professional networks and learn from
international speakers through seminars and workshops."

This past year marked the beginning of changes to the event with
the launch of the first Capturing Opportunities awards, honouring
dedicated individuals and organizations for community
achievements in the areas of outstanding community leadership,
economic development innovation and rural youth achievement.

The first Great Manitoba Food Fight was also held in 2007,
highlighting a unique and new entrepreneurial challenge that will
help bring new Manitoba products to market. Starting this year,
an emerging sector with opportunities for Manitobans will be
featured beginning with functional foods and nutraceuticals.

"Capturing Opportunities will continue to link Manitoba youth
with the opportunity to develop, practise and evaluate their
entrepreneurship skills through events held specifically for the
next generation of rural leaders in conjunction with partners
such as Junior Achievement and the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce,"
said the minister.

Capturing Opportunities will be held April 24 and 25 at the
Keystone Centre in Brandon. Updates can be found at
www.capturingopportunities.ca.