Micro-entrepreneurs are still standing in tough global economy. Join the conversation @ 2012 Toronto Microfinance Symposium (Oct 16)

TORONTO, Oct. 11, 2012 /CNW/ - Toronto International Microfinance Summit, Canada's Premier Microfinance Event, announced today that industry leaders and frontline experts at its 2012 TORONTO MICROFINANCE SYMPOSIUM in collaboration with Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, will discuss how training and supports are helping micro-entrepreneurs succeed locally and internationally.

EVENT:			2012 Toronto Microfinance Symposium: Why cooperatives and partnerships are working
DATE:			Tuesday, October 16, 2012
PLACE:			Event Hall, Rotman School of Management, 105 St. George Street (2^nd Floor, South Building), Toronto
TIME:			Registration 12:15-1:00 pm, Program 1:00-4:30 pm, Reception 4:30-5:15 pm
COST:			$25 per person (plus HST)

"On a national and international scale, growth is not what we expected it to be. It's vital that we support entrepreneurs and small business people as much as possible, as they're an important part of our local economies, and have proven in a tough economy that they're resilient," says John Lahey, President and CEO of Alterna Savings. "By providing programs like Micro Finance, we open the doors to more opportunities for these individuals to be productive contributors to their communities and reduce reliance on government assistance."

"When you provide people with access to opportunity, training and the supports they require, they succeed," adds Javed Sakhawat, Vice-Chair of the 2012 Toronto Microfinance Symposium.  "On October 16^th, Anne Gaboury, President and CEO of Développement international Desjardins; David E. Phillips, President and CEO of Credit Union Central of Canada; Susan Crocker, Chair of the Advisory Board at COADY International Institute; and moderator Jo-Anne Ferguson, Senior Director, International Development at the Canadian Co-operative Association; will discuss specifics with attendees."

• Citi Foundation, our lead sponsor makes it possible to provide the one-time, incredible ticket price for all attendees.
• In partnership with The MasterCard Foundation, we are providing students free tickets with mandatory advance online registration including a valid student identification number.
• Alterna Savings makes it possible for the first 200 registrants to receive a free book entitled Freedom from Want: The Remarkable Success Story of BRAC, the Global Grassroots Organization That's Winning the Fight Against Poverty

For tickets and more information including speakers and session descriptions, visit www.microfinanceconference.ca

Toronto International Microfinance Summit is Canada's premier event focusing on domestic and international microfinance. Founded in 2009 and incorporated as a nonprofit in 2011, the organization was inspired by the Rotarian Action Group for Microcredit (RAGM) and Rotary District 7070 Microfinance Committee. The Summit's signature Conference and Gala are run entirely by volunteers of diverse backgrounds and ages. Our vision is a world without poverty through microfinance. Our mission is: to educate our community on microfinance, a formidable poverty reduction tool; to create a forum for dialogue and action; and to raise profile and/or funds for organizations that make an impact through microfinance. In October 2012, we are collaborating with Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, to present the 2012 Toronto Microfinance Symposium. www.microfinanceconference.ca

Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, has set out to redesign business education for the 21st century and become one of the world's top-tier business schools. Located in the heart of Toronto--North America's third-largest financial centre and one of the world's most culturally-diverse cities -- the School is developing an innovative curriculum built around Integrative ThinkingTM and Business DesignTM.  Rotman, in partnership with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), has established a domestic microfund that operates across Ontario,Canada-Rise Asset Development. Rise, with the support of the Rotman School of Management and CAMH, provides microfinancing and mentorship to men and women living with mental illness and addictions who are interested in pursuing self-employment. www.rotman.utoronto.ca/

Alterna Savings is a full-service, member-focused, and community-based credit union that operates in the National Capital Region and the Greater Toronto Area. Guided by a commitment to support the well-being of members, employees and communities, Alterna offers a broad range of financial products and services to over 100,000 members. Learn about the Alterna Savings difference at www.alterna.ca

SOURCE: Toronto International Microfinance Summit

Wendy Bodnoff
Co-Chair, Marketing, Media & PR
Toronto International Microfinance Summit
905 334 3660 [email protected]