TORONTO, May 19 /CNW/ - In a joint initiative sponsored by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) and Scotiabank, six young Canadians have been chosen for the inaugural CFIB and Scotiabank Internship in Public Policy and Entrepreneurship. The internship provides placement and funding for six interns, one each from Regina, Calgary, Halifax, and Ottawa, and two from Toronto, for a four-month internship.

"In celebrating the Year of the Entrepreneur and our 40^th anniversary, CFIB is delighted to be collaborating with Scotiabank to give the next generation of students an occasion to experience what small business is all about. This is a great opportunity for them to build on their talent and expertise, and to foster a better understanding of Canada's job creating sector," said Catherine Swift, President and CEO, CFIB.

Working at the regional CFIB offices, the interns will gain on-the-job, specialized and applied experience in public policy development, complete a major research report on a public policy issue, be exposed to special training sessions conducted by CFIB and work with other interns and staff across Canada.

"Scotiabank is very pleased to be partnering with CFIB to offer this internship to young Canadians," said David Wilton, Director, Small Business, Scotiabank. "Scotiabank is committed to education and helping students achieve their full potential. By sponsoring this program, specifically focused on learning about public policy issues, we are providing an opportunity for youth to gain real life work experience in their area of interest."

The interns come from diverse backgrounds, including undergraduate or graduate work in political science, economics, law, business, commerce, and public administration. The six interns were selected from more than 250 applicants.

About Scotiabank
Scotiabank is one of North America's premier financial institutions and Canada's most international bank. With more than 70,000 employees, Scotiabank Group and its affiliates serve some 18.6 million customers in more than 50 countries around the world. Scotiabank offers a broad range of products and services including personal, commercial, corporate and investment banking. With assets above $541 billion (as at January 31, 2011), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto (BNS) and New York Exchanges (BNS). For more information please visit www.scotiabank.com.

About the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)
As Canada's largest association of small- and medium-sized businesses, CFIB is Powered by Entrepreneurs™. Established in 1971, CFIB takes direction from more than 108,000 members in every sector nationwide, giving independent business a strong and influential voice at all levels of government and helping to grow the economy. www.cfib-fcei.ca.