SMALL BUSINESSES CELEBRATED AS ECONOMIC DRIVERS

Saskatchewan's many small businesses drive our economy, and their power and energy are being celebrated during Small Business Week in Saskatchewan, October 16th to 22nd.

"Small businesses are our economic backbone," Deputy Premier and Rural Development Minister Clay Serby said. "They are the foundation for strong Saskatchewan communities and the employers of thousands of Saskatchewan people. They have been key contributors to our province during its first 100 years, and will be no less important to Saskatchewan in its second century of opportunity."

Saskatchewan has around 38,000 small businesses - accounting for over 90 per cent of total businesses in the province – that operate in all sectors of the economy, from agriculture to leading edge technology, and from retail to manufacturing. As well, small businesses employ more than one-third of Saskatchewan's working population.

"Saskatchewan's small businesses exemplify our province's 'grassroots' entrepreneurial spirit at its best," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Through our new Saskatchewan Action Plan for the Economy, we are supporting that spirit, and helping build an even better climate for the growth of small businesses."

Saskatchewan's Small Business Week builds on a similar national celebration of entrepreneurship sponsored by the Business Development Bank of Canada. Theme of the national week is "You're the power behind the Canadian economy. Let's share the energy."

Small Business Week will be celebrated at special events in various communities throughout Saskatchewan.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306)787-1691

Scott Brown Rural Development Regina Phone: (306)787-4031