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:

“October marks the start of the 10th annual Small Business Month in British Columbia.

“We celebrate Small Business Month each October to recognize the significant role small businesses play in our economy and our communities. Small businesses are vitally important to British Columbia, touching every sector of the economy and all regions of the province.

“From technology to guide outfitters, medical services to agriculture, retail to natural resources; small businesses account for ninety-eight per cent of all business in B.C. and employ more than one million people. Last year alone, small businesses throughout our province exported $12.9-billion worth of made-in-B.C. products and expertise all around the world.

“The contribution of our small-business sector goes beyond the economy. Small businesses are often the social hub of a neighbourhood. Many provide opportunities for young people and new British Columbians to enter the workforce, while others champion causes to give to those in need, and sponsor local sports and cultural programs.

“This year, the Province will partner with Small Business BC to provide all of their resources, programs, and services for business owners absolutely free of charge! We will also partner on initiatives like Rock My Business Plan workshops and MyBizDays seminars throughout the Province, and I would like to encourage all small business owners and entrepreneurs to take advantage of these opportunities.

“I would like to encourage every British Columbian to participate in Small Business Month by buying local, by submitting an idea to government on how to #cutredtape through our engagement button, and by joining the small-business conversation on social media using the hashtags #BCbiz and #SmallBusinessMonth.”