Eight communities who champion small businesses will be celebrated for the second annual provincewide B.C.'s Most Small Business Friendly Community Award.

The deadline for submissions is Saturday, June 30, 2012.

Applications for the award will be evaluated based on the following achievements:

• Reducing regulatory barriers.
• Enhancing small business competitiveness.
• Recognizing small business' contribution to their community.
• Supporting climate action initiatives, which benefit small business.

The award is organized by B.C.'s Small Business Roundtable. Co-chaired by Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation Pat Bell and Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger, the roundtable seeks advice from the small business community on issues, strategies and potential actions to support B.C.'s small businesses.

The small business sector is a key economic driver in B.C., employing more than one million people and providing nearly 57 per cent of all private-sector jobs. This award recognizes the efforts municipal governments are making to reduce regulatory barriers and help small businesses thrive.

Up to three finalists per region will be selected by August 2012. The awards will be announced in October during Small Business Month.

Quick Facts:

Last year's Most Small Business Friendly Community award winners were:

Surrey, Kamloops, Ladysmith, Prince Rupert, Quesnel and Rossland.

Learn More:

Visit the Small Business Roundtable website: http://www.smallbusinessroundtable.ca/Pages/Default.aspx

Contact:

Media Relations
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation
250 356-7104