Statement - Canada Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week

OTTAWA, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Global Entrepreneurship Week, which begins today, is celebrated around the world and runs through November 20. The Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, is set to participate in a number of activities with partner organizations. She made the following statement:

"Small and medium-sized enterprises are owned by and serve middle-class Canadians. They provide us with jobs. SMEs aren't just crucial drivers of the Canadian economy; they are at the heart of all of our communities.

"That's why we're committed to helping small businesses innovate, grow and compete in the global market. In Budget 2016, we made available up to $800 million over four years to support innovation, accelerate growth and propel entrepreneurs from the start-up phase to international success.

"Global Entrepreneurship Week celebrates the importance of entrepreneurs to our regional economies and to the national and global economy. Partner organizations, like Futurpreneur Canada, have organized many opportunities throughout the week to promote Canadian entrepreneurs and open a dialogue on how we can all support their success.

"I look forward to participating in and celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week alongside all of our Canadian entrepreneurs!" 

Futurpreneur Canada, the Canadian host for the eighth consecutive year, has been fuelling the entrepreneurial passions of young Canadians for nearly two decades. It is a national non-profit organization that provides financing, mentoring and support tools to aspiring business owners aged 18–39.

Follow Minister Chagger on social media.
Twitter: @MinofSBT
Instagram: minofsbt

SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

James Fitz-Morris, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Small Business and Tourism, 343-291-2700; Media Relations, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, 343-291-1777, [email protected]