Premier Greg Selinger welcomed business leaders from the Central Plains and other regions on Wednesday to partake in the Centrallia global forum.

The conference is designed to helped local Manitoba businesses increase their international opportunities around the world.

Paul Warthe, from the Central Plains Inc. said the group has been in Winnipeg trying to attract business to the Portage community.

Using a speed dating method, businesses will discuss strategies and initiatives with international bodies between 30 minutes to an hour before moving on.

The gathering was supported by the Government of Manitoba, which provided $600,000 to allow business to capitalize on Manitoba's location at the heart of North America to promote the province's key role.

More than 600 businesses leaders from more than 40 world economic regions. The conference goes until Friday.

cphl.news@sunmedia.ca