Cooperatives play an important role in Maine's economy. They are especially beneficial for the small business or entrepreneur who may be able to merge costs and efforts with similar businesses for increased efficiency. Cooperatives have been successfully meeting people's needs for food, housing, energy, financial services, health care, and other basics for generations. They enable farmers, fishermen, artists, builders, care providers, woodlot owners, business consultants, and independent entrepreneurs of all types to own successful companies. In addition, they recycle capital back into the local economy and aim to generate high quality, stable employment.

The conference is well-supported by Maine's Congressional Delegation, including Senator Olympia J. Snowe who said, "To remain competitive in an increasingly global economy, it is vital that our nation's small businesses consider innovative measures, like forming cooperatives, to leverage their resources and maximize their potential. The Small Business Health Fairness Act of 2005, which I introduced earlier this year, would allow cooperatives to achieve greater bargaining power when negotiating for health benefits for their members. I will continue to press for passage of this legislation and encourage businesses to take advantage of this symposium to learn about other ways in which cooperatives may assist them."

USDA Rural Development State Director Michael W. Aube said, "In many instances, forming cooperatives gives small businesses and entrepreneurs the advantages they need to be competitive in the marketplace. Rural Development hopes to reach many such businesses through the Maine Cooperative Development Conference."

For more information, or to register for the Maine Cooperative Development Conference to be held on Wednesday, September 21, 2005, at the Bangor Motor Inn, on the Hogan Road, in Bangor, Maine, visit http://www.maine.gov/agriculture/mpd/business/coop.html. Maine business, economic, and community development professionals, and groups seriously considering or embarking on starting a cooperative, are encouraged to register without delay, as seating is limited.

USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. As a venture capital entity, Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov or telephone (207) 990-9160. USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. Complaints of discrimination should be sent to: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410