One of the year’s biggest events for wine lovers is happening Oct. 15 when BC Liquor Stores hold its annual release of highly-prized Bordeaux wines.

The new Franchises Act and regulations, which come into force on Feb. 1, 2017, will help ensure that a prospective entrepreneur who wants to open a franchise in British Columbia has the information and support needed to make an informed decision about whether to invest in the franchised business.

Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction, and Minister Responsible for the Liquor Distribution Branch Coralee Oakes has issued the following statement in honour of Small Business Month:

Entrepreneurs throughout British Columbia are benefitting from local, provincial and federal government partnerships aimed at expanding two programs that cut red tape, create jobs and grow the economy.

The results are in, and five communities across British Columbia have won the Small Business Roundtable’s Open for Business Award in recognition of their efforts to support the growth of small businesses, create jobs and drive local economic growth.

The Province has announced changes that will allow businesses with only outdoor patio seating to apply to offer liquor service, a move that will create new opportunities for small businesses and support increased consumer choice.

As part of the Province’s commitment to cut red tape and improve access to important programs and services, the Ministry of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction announced the release of the Aboriginal Small Business Resource handout. This one-stop reference handout is tailored specifically to Aboriginal entrepreneurs, and includes information on how to access the range of services and supports available to Aboriginal small-business owners.

Aboriginal high school students will benefit from new business and skills training opportunities, thanks to a partnership between the Province, JA British Columbia (JABC), Community Futures Development Corporation of the Central Interior First Nations and the Aboriginal Business Services Network.