Minister of Status of Women and Minister of Labour Marking Global Entrepreneurship Week

OTTAWA, Nov. 22, 2013 /CNW/ - Today the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Status of Women and Minister of Labour, issued the following statement marking Global Entrepreneurship Week, taking place from November 18-24, 2013:

"I applaud all Canadian women entrepreneurs who, through their innovation and creativity, are playing a key role in creating jobs, fuelling economic growth and helping secure greater prosperity for their families and communities.

Women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises are being established at a growing rate and the results have been impressive. Over 570,000 people are now employed by majority women-owned businesses

If Canada is to remain one of the most prosperous countries in the world, women need to be encouraged to contribute to our prosperity at every level. That is why since 2007, over $46 million in funding has been approved through Status of Women Canada for projects that promote women's economic security and prosperity. In addition, our Government has created an Advisory Council to advance womens' participation on corporate boards.

Increasing economic opportunities for Canadian women is good for them and good for Canada's economy.

Join me in saluting the many thousands of women entrepreneurs who are engines of job creation, and drivers of innovation and creativity in Canada."

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada

For media inquiries only:
Barbara Mottram
Office of the Hon. Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, P.C., 
O. Ont., M.P.
Minister of Labour and Minister of 
Status of Women
Tel: [phone]