The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honorable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister for Industry, Energy and Technology:
Speaker, small businesses and cooperatives make a significant contribution to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador. That is why I am pleased to rise today in this Honorable House to recognize October 15-21 as Small Business Week and Cooperative Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.
There are more than 15,000 small businesses in this province that create jobs, build stronger communities and generate a more diversified economy. Our government invests significantly in small businesses through programs and supports for existing businesses, startups, and the business ecosystem. These have supported various sectors of our economy, such as technology, crafts, tourism, construction, mining and quarrying, oil and gas extraction, agriculture, forestry, fishing and equipment industries. We cannot underestimate the impact that small and medium-sized businesses have in energizing local economies and sustaining rural communities.
Our province has more than 70 registered cooperatives. These, along with social enterprises, are leaders in community economic development. This year, the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Cooperatives (NLFC) proclaims that โcooperatives are serious business!โ My department works closely with the NLFC and other partners, such as credit unions, in an effort to help purpose-driven people and businesses start, grow and achieve meaningful impact. Together we work to transform the way business is done to build strong community businesses that foster the sustainability of communities across the province.
President, I ask all members to join me in recognizing the persistence and commitment of small businesses and cooperatives in our communities.
2023 10 16
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