Yellowknife (Mar 03/04) - Industry Canada's Aboriginal Business Canada program has opened a new office in Yellowknife.

"We're actually putting one officer in the office. It's a satellite office with an individual who is able to promote the program -- answer questions, receive and evaluate proposals and so on," said Jeff Moore, executive director for Aboriginal Business Canada.

An individual who was working in Cambridge Bay, George Gottscahl, has been hired to work in the Yellowknife office, said Moore.

"He's our development officer in our Yellowknife office," said Moore.

"What George will be doing is delivering the Aboriginal Business Development Program. He provides assessments to aboriginal entrepreneurs to start or expand a business," said Moore.

In his new position, Gottscahl will focus on a number of strategies and priorities.

Those priorities include youth. That means anyone younger than age 36.

The office will also assist aboriginals already in business to increase their bottom line and make processes and products more innovative, said Moore.

"Tourism is also a strategic priority for the program. Any individual may potentially land support if they have a viable business plan. So long as more than half of their revenue comes from tourists," said Moore.

"We're hoping we're going to generate more business and make sure we're able to facilitate access to opportunities," said Moore.

The new office is located on the sixth floor of the Yellowknife Centre.