Saskatchewan is reminding trading partners worldwide that they are 'open for business'

Given the decreased demand for goods from some major trading partners including the U.S., one Canadian province is taking new steps to help businesses market their products.

A report on Saskatchewan radio station CBOK News Talk 650, the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership is engaged in a high-tech marketing campaign telling countries around the world that the province's businesses are open and ready to ship.

With general facts about the province's economy, contact details for exporters, and product descriptions, the STEP is hoping to woo new business from abroad, says the article.

And according to many business experts, an aggressive marketing campaign - despite the down economy - is key to long-term viability and maintaining a loyal customer base.

While some small businesses may not have the budget to launch a full scale marketing push, the power of the internet is a cost-effective way to help small shops compete on a bigger platform.

Well designed websites with useful, fresh content may help bring visitors to an ecommerce site and lead to new sales. Similarly, user generated content - like product reviews and recommendations - posted on a company website are one inexpensive way to help promote products and services