Statement by Minister Petitpas Taylor to mark CBDC Day

May 11, 2022 · Moncton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), today issued the following statement:

“For over 35 years, the Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) network in Atlantic Canada has been providing business owners in rural communities with crucial financial support, skills training and counselling services.  

“Every year, the second Wednesday in May is set aside to focus on the impact of the CBDC network and its employees in helping to build vibrant local economies and stimulating job opportunities in our communities. In particular, the CBDCs work throughout the region to enable the creation, expansion and modernization of small and medium-sized businesses that are vital to our economy.

“The amazing staff at the CBDCs have worked tirelessly over the last two years to help Atlantic Canadian entrepreneurs get through the uncertainties, keep their businesses afloat and protect local jobs. I especially appreciate all that the 41 CBDCs have done during the pandemic to support businesses, in particular, when they quickly came together to provide over $84 million in loans and offer an interest cessation program to ease the strain on business owners.

“If you are a small business owner, or an aspiring one, I invite you to join this year’s events on the Atlantic Association of CBDCs Facebook page to learn more about the network and what it can do for you.

“I look forward to the ongoing collaborative relationship between our government and the CBDC network in Atlantic Canada as we continue to grow the economy in communities, big and small, across the region.”