Communities throughout British Columbia are encouraged to submit their Open for Business award application before the deadline on July 11, 2014.

The award provides $10,000 for up to 20 local governments that best demonstrate they are operating within the spirit of the B.C. Small Business Accord. The Accord was established to help foster a progressive business culture where government initiatives support current and future generations of small business owners across the province. The intent of the financial award is to fund a local, small business-friendly initiative that aligns with principles of the Accord.

Award evaluations will be based on local measures that make it easier to do business in that community. The evaluation criteria reflects the Accord by recognizing that when small businesses are celebrated and supported by their local government,, they are more likely to be competitive and innovative in their community.

Interested municipalities can find more information at: www.smallbusinessroundtable.ca

Other community organizations such as Chambers of Commerce are encouraged to work with their local governments to submit applications.

Winners will be announced at the Union of BC Municipalities Annual Convention in September.

Quote:

Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Small Business -

“Small businesses are the heart and soul of the community, and the Open for Business Awards give local municipalities the opportunity to showcase best practices they use to make their community the most small business friendly in B.C. I encourage communities across B.C. to submit applications for the award and celebrate the importance of small business.”

Quick Facts:

• Small business is defined as a business with fewer than 50 employees, or self employed without paid help.
• 98% of B.C. businesses are classified as small businesses.
• Small business provides nearly 56% of private-sector jobs, employing over one million people in B.C.
• B.C.'s small business community contributes 29% of the province's Gross Domestic Product.
• B.C.'s Small Business Roundtable is responsible for identifying key small business issues and opportunities, providing recommendations to enhance the small business climate in B.C., and promoting small business interests.
• The list of last year's winners can be viewed at: https://www.smallbusinessroundtable.ca/Home/Open-for-Business-Awards.aspx

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799