Minister of State Bernier Applauds Entrepreneurs at Small Business Week Event in Edmonton

Edmonton, Alberta, October 21, 2011—Today, the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism), addressed Edmonton-area small business leaders at the Small Business Owner of the Year Awards Luncheon hosted by the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce.

"Edmonton is home to some truly exceptional and successful small business leaders," said Minister of State Bernier. "Our government stands behind these small businesses and entrepreneurs who, through their drive and determination, are creating jobs and building a strong economy. By lowering taxes, cutting red tape, reducing trade barriers and providing small businesses with tax credits, our government continues to take responsible, affordable and practical steps to assist Canadian small businesses."

Cutting red tape for small businesses is a key government priority, and resources such as the Canada Business Network and BizPaL provide easy access to business information from multiple levels of government. This simplifies small business operations and reduces red tape.

The Government of Canada has declared 2011 the Year of the Entrepreneur to increase public awareness of the important role small businesses play in the Canadian economy. Small and medium-sized businesses account for 99 percent of companies and employ 64 percent of working Canadians. They contribute about 40 percent to our country's GDP, proving to be a strong economic driver and an important source of job creation.

The Government of Canada is committed to working closely with entrepreneurs and business owners to strengthen this foundation and make Canada an innovative and competitive leader on the global stage.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Scott French
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Maxime Bernier
Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism)
613-943-6183

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502