October 16, 2009
Victoria British Columbia
Two reports released today provide significant indicators of the economic health of small business in British Columbia, announced Iain Black, Minister of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development during an address to the Vancouver Board of Trade.
Both the Small Business Profile 2009 and the Small Business Roundtable 4th Annual Report to Government confirm that B.C.'s small business sector is strong and vibrant.
"Small business remains a vital source of job creation, innovation and economic stimulation in our province," said Black. "The latest Small Business Profile shows that B.C. is leading the country in the number of small businesses per capita, in the share of self-employed workers, in the sector's contribution to provincial GDP, and much more."
The Small Business Profile 2009 is created in partnership between the Province, BC Stats and Western Economic Diversification Canada.
"Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, our government is building the foundation for our future prosperity," said Andrew Saxton, MP for North Vancouver on behalf of Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. "Not only is small business a mainstay of B.C.'s economy, but it is also a driving force in our economy, employing over one million people and making up 98 per cent of all B.C. business."
The Small Business Roundtable report is its fourth report to government. Since forming in 2005, the roundtable has held over 35 consultations with more than 600 small business owners. Its 24 members represent small business organizations from every region of B.C. The report presents recommendations to government and the small business community on ways to improve B.C.'s business sector.
"Our report emphasizes that small businesses in British Columbia are innovative and resilient, and can lead the way to prosperity," said Small Business Roundtable co-chair Linda Larson. "This resilience, coupled with the B.C. government's continued commitment to help small businesses succeed, is helping small businesses weather the economic storm."
"Small businesses are integral to the health of our communities and will play a lead role in the coming economic recovery," said Black. "I'm looking forward to continuing government's partnership with small business and other levels of government, to better support the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our economy."
For a copy of the Small Business Profile 2009, visit http://www.resourcecentre.gov.bc.ca/publications.htm and click "Guides and Publications." For a copy of the Small Business Roundtable 4th Annual Report to Government, visit www.smallbusinessroundtable.ca/publications.
Contact:
Rob Duffus
250 356-9428
Donna Howes
Communications Manager
British Columbia
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Tel: 604-666-1318
Cell:604-505-6616
http://www.wd.gc.ca/
