Small Business Week about to begin

Shannon LeClair

Times Reporter

 

Several events have been planned by the Chamber of Commerce as a part of celebrating Small Business Week, which runs from the 17 to the 23.  From 2005 to 2009 the number of self-employed people in Alberta increased by 69.5 per cent, excluding Calgary and Edmonton, which represents 18 per cent of Alberta’s total workforce. 

“Small Business Week is an important opportunity to focus attention on the courage, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners,” said Lin Walker, President of the Strathmore and District Chamber of Commerce. The statistics released were compiled by Alberta Finance and Enterprise. To help celebrate the week, there have been a variety of initiatives initiated to promote the town’s businesses. The Shop Local initiative is fully launching in coordination with the week, and on the 21 there will be a Business Awards Evening. 

There are three different categories for Business of the Year: small business, medium, and large companies. There will also be Community Spirit Award to commemorate the business or organization that demonstrates excellence in enthusiastic support and promotion of the community. 

“Although the past several months may have been a rough patch for many entrepreneurs,” said Ron Cox, Manager of Community Futures Wild Rose. “Our fastest growing businesses continue to be small businesses, providing necessary products and services, creating jobs and supporting local economies. We’re committed to helping small businesses succeed.”

Small Business Week was officially launched nationwide by BDC in 1981. It began in 1979 when BDC branches in the Lower Fraser Valley in British Columbia organized small business management sessions during one week, which later became Small Business Week.