By MLA Jackie Lovely MLA Camrose
Small businesses are the cornerstone of our economy. Not only do small businesses make up about 96 per cent of all businesses in Alberta, but they also contribute over $100 billion annually towards our province’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while employing hundreds of thousands of everyday people. Small businesses also play critical roles in our communities by doing things like sponsoring hockey teams, donating to schools, and employing youth and seniors.
Our United Conservative government recently celebrated Small Business Week. During this time, we highlighted and celebrated the creativity and dedication of small business owners and workers across the province – as well as our commitment to supporting them with resources like the web portal Biz Connect, which helps connect small businesses with support, associations, coaching, mentoring, and more.
More than anything, however, Small Business Week is a time to shop local and support entrepreneurs in our communities. Alberta is back and stronger than ever, thanks in large part to Alberta’s small business owners and operators who have helped drive economic growth by creating jobs and stimulating local economies.
Small Business Week is a time to honour the contributions of these unsung heroes, who aren’t just the backbone of our economy, but our dreamers, innovators, friends, neighbours, and family members. From farms to tech startups, mom-and-pop shops to innovative industries, Alberta’s small business landscape and continuous growth are a testament to the resilience and determination of our people.
In both rural and urban communities, small businesses embody the spirit of pride, passion, and entrepreneurship that defines Alberta. Our province is no stranger to hardship. Alberta’s small businesses have weathered many storms. But they continuously manage to innovate, adapt, and thrive with the strength and resilience Alberta is known for, and our government celebrates and supports them.
Small Business Week may be over for this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t continue to show small businesses our unwavering support. As 2023 draws to a close, let’s remember to shop local, dine at neighbourhood restaurants, and explore the unique and innovative products and services offered by the small businesses in our communities. By doing so, we can support our friends and neighbours, and our economy.
Thank you to all our small business owners, workers, and entrepreneurs – Alberta would not be what it is today without you!
- MLA Lovely is the representative for the constituency of Camrose and area.