Small businesses are the heart and soul of communities and continue to be a key driver of job creation and economic growth.
You may be surprised that 98 per cent of B.C. businesses are classified as small business, generating 31 per cent of the province’s gross domestic product and accounting for 86 per cent of all provincial exporters.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business recently gave B.C. an “A” for regulatory reform — the only province in Canada to receive an “A.”
As someone who has been involved with various Chambers of Commerce at an executive level,
I recognize and appreciate the contributions, innovation, investment and job creation that small business owners and entrepreneurs have in our economy and the leadership it takes to operate them.
I would like to congratulate them on all of their hard work and dedication towards making our communities and province a better place.
National Small Business Week runs from October 19-25.
It is also Small Business Month in B.C. this month, an opportunity to celebrate the owners who many are also parents, coaches and volunteers who make a difference every day.
Our government is already a leader in the fight against red tape, but we know there is more we can do to support small businesses in B.C.
This month, join me in thanking small businesses across the province and in our community for their leadership.
Coralee Oakes is the MLA for Cariboo North and is the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.