Ottawa – Industry Canada

Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism) (Agriculture), today welcomes an announcement by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) launching four new awards celebrating Canadian entrepreneurship.

The Government of Canada is delivering on its Economic Action Plan 2013 commitment to celebrate the achievements, mentorship activities, innovation and resilience of Canadian entrepreneurs.

The BDC also opens the call for nominations for the Mentorship Award, which was developed in cooperation with the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF). This award will honour mentors who have provided valuable advice that has led to the creation and growth of Canadian firms.

Small businesses make up 98 percent of all companies in Canada, employ nearly 70 percent of the private sector labour force and contribute about 40 percent to the gross domestic product.

Quick facts

• The BDC will administer these awards. Eligibility criteria and nomination documents can be found on the BDC website.
• The three remaining awards—the Innovation Award, the Resiliency Award and the Entrepreneurship Champion—will be launched in the coming weeks.
• Since its inception, the CYBF has assisted and mentored over 5,600 young Canadians.

Quote

"By dedicating time and energy and providing advice to young or new entrepreneurs, mentors play an integral role in ensuring the success of the next generation of Canadian entrepreneurs. Economic Action Plan 2013 set out a series of awards to recognize the contribution Canadian entrepreneurs make to our economy and our communities, while inspiring Canadians to innovate, create jobs and spur economic growth."

– Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism) (Agriculture)

src:news.gc.ca