Minister of State for Tourism and Small Business Naomi Yamamoto released the following statement to kick off Small Business Month in British Columbia:

Small businesses are the heart and soul of communities. They support families and keep local economies strong. The owners are parents, coaches and volunteers who make a difference every day.

October is Small Business Month - our chance to recognize the tremendous contributions that small businesses make. Across B.C., 98 per cent of businesses are small businesses and more than a million British Columbians work for them.

It takes courage, energy and dedication to run a small business. I know the challenges from running my own business for 21 years and from my time with the BC Chamber of Commerce and the North Vancouver Chamber. That's why, as Minister of State, I am working hard to make B.C. the most small-business friendly jurisdiction in Canada. It's why we're continuing to cut red tape and boost the small business share of government contracts by 20 per cent. It's also why government has already cut the small business corporate income tax rate by 44 per cent, and is committed to cutting it a further 40 per cent.

This month, join me in thanking small businesses in your community. They are more than just business owners. In fact, you can nominate your favourite for a Small Business BC Award between Oct. 1 and Nov. 30: http://sbbcawards.ca/

Together, we can make sure the small-business heart of our communities beats a little stronger.

Media Contact:

Naomi Yamamoto
Minister of State for Tourism and Small Business
250 387-2799